Sipho Mbule reveals Kaizer Chiefs interest before Orlando Pirates move

Former Orlando Pirates midfielder Sipho Mbule has revealed that Kaizer Chiefs were among the clubs trying to sign him after his contract with Mamelodi Sundowns ended.

Mbule was speaking on the sports documentary series Giants about his decision to join Orlando Pirates, despite strong interest from their Soweto rivals.

The 28-year-old said discussions with several influential figures, including former coach Rhulani Mokwena, helped convince him that a move to the Buccaneers was the right choice.

“So my contract with Sundowns ended. There were other teams also that wanted to sign me. Even Chiefs approached me,” Mbule said.

“The people and coaches that I spoke to, like coach Rulani [Mokwena], told me that the best team to join is Pirates… because I think there was an opportunity for him to make a comeback [to the team].”

Mbule completed his move to Orlando Pirates in June 2025, ahead of the 2025/26 Betway Premiership campaign.

The midfielder joined on a free transfer, with Pirates securing his services ahead of their long-standing rivals. The deal was viewed as a significant signing for the club.

Under head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, Mbule quickly established himself as a popular figure among the Pirates supporters. He played an important role in a successful domestic season in which the club won the MTN8, Carling Knockout and Premier Soccer League.

His performances in midfield also led to a return to the international setup. Mbule was recalled by Hugo Broos to the Bafana Bafana squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

However, despite his impact on the pitch and the team’s success, his time at Orlando Pirates lasted only one season.

The club chose not to renew his one-year contract when it expired at the end of the campaign. Mbule subsequently left South Africa to continue his career with Iraqi top-flight club Zakho SC.