Champions Orlando Pirates strengthen squad with four new signings ahead of new season

Orlando Pirates have unveiled a significant squad reshuffle ahead of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season, confirming the arrival of four new players while also announcing the departure of five members following the expiry of their contracts.

The reigning league champions revealed the changes in an official statement released on Tuesday, marking a clear step in their ongoing effort to refresh and strengthen the squad for the challenges ahead.

Among the new arrivals is defender Mthetheleli Mthiyane, who joins from Stellenbosch FC. He is joined by Sbangani Zulu, recruited from Richards Bay, as well as Bohale Ngwato and Ghampani Lungu, both arriving from Siwelele FC.

The club also confirmed that defender Thabiso Lebitso will move in the opposite direction as part of a swap deal involving Mthiyane. Further details on the new signings are expected to be released in due course.

At the same time, the Soweto giants bid farewell to five players whose contracts have come to an end. Those departing are Bandile Shandu, Sipho Mbule, Tshegofatso Mabasa, Karim Kimvuidi, and Deivi Miguel Vieira (Gilberto).

In its statement, the club expressed gratitude for their contributions, noting that each player had played a role in the team’s recent success and wishing them well in the next chapters of their careers.

The latest activity underlines a busy transfer period for Pirates as they look to maintain their dominance in South African football while reshaping the squad for another title push.