Pirates face uncertain future over Nkota after loan return

Orlando Pirates will have Mohau Nkota available for the 2026/27 season, but the club do not have an option to sign the winger permanently when his loan ends.

The 21-year-old returned to the Soweto giants after completing a permanent move to Saudi Arabian club Al-Ettifaq in July 2025. He signed a three-year contract with the club following an impressive breakthrough campaign at Pirates.

The move to Saudi Arabia marked a significant stage in Nkota’s career, although his progress was disrupted by a number of difficulties. He made 22 appearances for Al-Ettifaq, scoring two goals and providing three assists.

Injury problems, including a torn meniscus in June 2026, together with personal challenges, affected his time at the club. His return to Pirates gave him the chance to rebuild his momentum, recover his fitness and compete for a place in Abdeslam Ouaddou’s attack.

Nkota has, however, had limited involvement since rejoining the club.

Nkota waiting for regular opportunities

The winger has made two appearances, both from the bench. He featured against Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 Final and against Milford FC in the Carling Knockout Cup Last 16.

He was also an unused substitute when Pirates beat Kaizer Chiefs 2-1 in last weekend’s Soweto Derby.

Pirates’ technical team are expected to manage Nkota’s return carefully as he works towards full fitness and attempts to regain a regular place in the squad. However, his playing time is not the only issue shaping the club’s decision over his future.

Information gathered by the Siya crew indicates that Pirates do not have a clause allowing them to retain Nkota permanently once his loan spell concludes.

That leaves Al-Ettifaq in control of any longer-term decision involving the player. Although Pirates have been given the opportunity to work with Nkota again, they would need to reach a further agreement with his parent club if they wanted to keep him beyond the current loan arrangement.

For now, Nkota’s focus is on returning to the team and making the most of the opportunities available to him. Pirates’ next match is against Sekhukhune United on Saturday.

His immediate involvement will depend on how quickly he can rebuild his fitness and form, but the absence of a permanent option means Pirates’ ability to keep the winger remains uncertain.