Orlando Pirates confirm five departures as squad overhaul begins ahead of 2026/27 season

Orlando Pirates have officially confirmed the departure of five players as the Soweto giants begin restructuring their squad ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The Buccaneers announced that forwards Tshegofatso Mabasa and Gilberto, midfielders Sipho Mbule and Karim Kimvuidi, as well as versatile defender Bandile Shandu, will all leave the club following the expiration of their respective contracts.

The departures form part of a significant rebuilding process at Pirates as the club looks to strengthen its squad for the upcoming campaign after being crowned Betway Premiership champions. The announcement came alongside the confirmation of several new arrivals as the club seeks to refresh its playing personnel.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Orlando Pirates thanked the departing players for their contributions during their time at the club.

“The players who will be leaving the club upon the conclusion of their respective contracts are Bandile Shandu, Sipho Mbule, Tshegofatso Mabasa, Karim Kimvuidi and Deivi Miguel Vieira (Gilberto),” the club confirmed. The Buccaneers added that each player had contributed to the club’s journey and wished them success in the next stages of their careers.

Among the departures, Mabasa’s exit is likely to attract significant attention. The striker enjoyed productive spells with Pirates and was among the club’s notable attacking options in recent seasons. His departure leaves a gap in the attacking department that the club will seek to address during the transfer window.

Mbule’s exit also marks the end of a short stint with the Buccaneers. The talented midfielder arrived with high expectations but struggled to establish himself as a regular starter. Reports in recent weeks had suggested that Pirates were unlikely to extend his stay, with the midfielder set to become a free agent.

Shandu, who joined the club from Maritzburg United, departs after several seasons in black and white. Known for his versatility and work rate, he featured in a number of positions across the pitch but found game time increasingly limited in recent campaigns.

Kimvuidi and Gilberto also move on after periods in which they struggled to cement regular places in the first team. Both players spent time away from the club and were among those expected to be evaluated as Pirates planned for the future.

The departures signal the beginning of what could be a busy transfer window for the Buccaneers. The club has already confirmed the arrivals of Mthetheli Mthiyane, Sbangani Zulu, Bohale Ngwato and Ghampani Lungu as part of its preparations for the new season.

With several experienced players moving on and new faces arriving, Pirates appear determined to build a squad capable of sustaining domestic success while competing strongly in continental competitions next season.