Orlando Pirates send Daniel Msendami and Abdoulaye Mariko to Marumo Gallants as Bheki Mabuza returns

Orlando Pirates have loaned Daniel Msendami and Abdoulaye Mariko to Marumo Gallants for the season, while midfielder Bheki Mabuza has rejoined the Buccaneers on a permanent transfer.

Pirates confirmed the three deals on Wednesday, in the latest movement of players between the two clubs.

Msendami and Mariko will spend the campaign with Gallants as the Limpopo club seeks to strengthen its squad and improve a difficult start to the Betway Premiership season. Both players will also be hoping to secure regular first-team football and continue their development during their time away from Pirates.

Mabuza is moving in the opposite direction after Pirates agreed a permanent transfer with Gallants for the midfielder.

The player was previously part of the Pirates set-up before leaving the club and spending time with Gallants. During that spell, he made what Pirates described as encouraging progress and impressed with his performances.

That form has persuaded the Buccaneers that Mabuza is ready to return and take the next step in his career.

“During his time away from the Club, Mabuza made encouraging progress and impressed. His performances at Gallants convinced the Club that he is ready to return and take the next step in his career,” Pirates said in a statement.

Mabuza’s return gives Pirates another option in midfield while bringing back a player who already knows the club’s environment.

Gallants, meanwhile, will hope the additions of Msendami and Mariko can help change their fortunes in the league. They have yet to win after five Betway Premiership matches, with three defeats and two draws so far.

The result leaves the Limpopo outfit 15th in the Betway Premiership table. Gallants will be aiming to use the arrival of the two Pirates players as a boost in their attempt to move away from the bottom end of the standings.

The deals represent an exchange of players between the clubs, although the nature of the moves is different. Msendami and Mariko have joined Gallants on season-long loan agreements, while Mabuza has made a permanent return to Orlando Pirates.

The latest business gives both clubs additions suited to their immediate needs. Gallants have brought in two Pirates players as they look for greater strength during the remainder of the campaign, while Pirates have brought Mabuza back after his progress during his time away from the club convinced them that he was prepared for a return.

No further details about the financial terms of the transfers were provided in Pirates’ confirmation of the moves.