Orlando Pirates’ five most valuable players, with Oswin Appollis leading the way

Orlando Pirates’ most valuable player is Oswin Appollis, whose market valuation has risen to €2.5m, while returning winger Mohau Nkota is ranked 14th after coming back on loan from Al-Ettifaq.

Appollis moved to the top of the Pirates rankings after the transfer of Relebohile Mofokeng to Union Saint-Gilloise. His valuation also makes him the third-highest in the entire Betway Premiership, behind only Mamelodi Sundowns pair Teboho Mokoena and Iqraam Rayners, who are both valued at €2.8m (R52m).

The figures, provided by the Transfermarkt website, reflect estimated market values and do not represent demand and supply.

Thalente Mbatha is second on the list at €2m. The midfielder has played an important role in Pirates’ recent successes and is regarded as one of the most sought-after young talents in the league.

Pirates captain Nkosinathi Sibisi and goalkeeper Sipho Chaine share third place, with both players valued at €1.6m.

Sibisi’s leadership and dependable performances in defence have made him a key member of coach Abdeslam Ouaddou’s team. Chaine, meanwhile, has established himself as one of the Betway Premiership’s most reliable goalkeepers and was named PSL Goalkeeper of the Season last term.

Evidence Makgopa completes the top five, with the striker valued at €1.4m. The Bafana Bafana regular was a consistent selection under former national team coach Hugo Broos and remains an important player for Orlando Pirates when fit.

Nkota’s return has attracted attention because of the rapid rise in his value before his move to Saudi Arabia. The Kimberley-born winger was sold to Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq for a reported €1.2m (R22m) in July 2025.

At that point, the 21-year-old’s career appeared to be progressing quickly. He had ambitions of displaying his ability for Bafana Bafana at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and had made a positive impression after joining Al-Ettifaq.

His progress was then disrupted by injuries, which ultimately prevented him from being included in the World Cup squad.

Before his transfer, Nkota’s valuation had doubled during the 2024/25 season, increasing from €400,000 (R7.4m) to €800,000 (R15m). That was the campaign in which Orlando Pirates reached the semi-finals of the CAF Champions League.

Nkota had reached the same €800,000 valuation when he arrived at The Commandos during his debut campaign. However, reduced playing time in Saudi Arabia has since contributed to a decline in his estimated value, which now stands at €700,000 (R13m).

The ambidextrous winger, known for his sharp finishing, returns to Orlando Pirates ranked 14th among the club’s highest-valued players.

His comeback follows a period in which his prospects had risen sharply, although injuries and limited opportunities at Al-Ettifaq have affected both his progress and his market valuation.

A Bafana legend has previously issued a stark warning to the Pirates youngster, saying: “Showboating won’t last”.