Monnapule Saleng’s time at Orlando Pirates may not be over just yet, despite growing speculation over a potential departure and the imminent arrival of a possible replacement.
The 27-year-old winger has not featured for the Buccaneers since December’s CAF Champions League tie against Al Ahly, sparking rumours that he has already played his final game for the club.
However, sources close to the club suggest the door remains ajar for a potential return — if behind-the-scenes issues are resolved.
Saleng’s continued absence has coincided with reports of Orlando Pirates sealing a deal for 20-year-old Kabelo Kgositsile from Baroka FC. Many believe the highly rated youngster has been identified as a direct replacement.
Yet, club insiders maintain that squad depth has always been a key strategy for the Soweto giants, and Kgositsile’s arrival doesn’t necessarily signal the end of Saleng’s time at the club.
AfricaSoccer.com understands that the standoff stems from contractual complications rather than performance issues.
Pirates had previously described Saleng’s exclusion from matchday squads as “temporary,” while his representatives at P Management Sports labelled the matter as a professional dispute in need of resolution.
“Pirates are a club that strengthens in every position, so bringing in another winger doesn’t mean Saleng is being replaced,” a source close to the situation told AfricaSoccer.com.
“If the matters between his camp and the club can be settled before the end of the season, there is still a strong chance he could play again.”
With head coach Jose Riveiro reportedly still rating Saleng highly, and the club not issuing any definitive statement on his future, supporters remain hopeful that a return to action is possible.
For now, Saleng’s fate hangs in the balance, but if talks progress positively in the coming weeks, fans might yet see him don the iconic black and white once again.
