Orlando Pirates confirm signing of Hope FC winger Edmilson Chaney

Orlando Pirates have completed the signing of teenage winger Edmilson Chaney from Hope FC, with the move confirmed by the ABC Motsepe League club.

Chaney, 19, attracted attention after making a strong impression for Hope FC last season and then starring in the ABC Motsepe League promotional playoffs in the Eastern Cape earlier this year.

A number of Betway Premiership and MFC teams were reportedly interested in the skilful wide player, but Orlando Pirates won the race to secure his services.

Hope FC announced Chaney’s departure on Monday, describing the teenager as an important figure in their promotion campaign and wishing him success at his new club.

“Edmilson “Millies” Chaney departs Hope FC after completing a transfer to Orlando Pirates,” Hope stated on Monday.

“A young man who played an important role in our promotion and whose journey represents exactly what we want Hope FC to stand for creating opportunities and pathways for young talent to reach the highest level.

“To Millies and his family, we wish you nothing but success on this next chapter.”

The confirmation ends uncertainty over Chaney’s next move after it was initially believed he could remain with The Immortals on loan for the 2026/27 campaign.

However, Hope FC’s announcement made no reference to Chaney being loaned back to the club for the upcoming season. The statement instead confirmed that he had completed his transfer to Orlando Pirates.

Chaney established his reputation in Hope FC colours during the previous campaign before producing another eye-catching display in the promotional playoffs. His performances helped put him on the radar of clubs from the Betway Premiership and MFC.

Pirates ultimately secured the 19-year-old, who is regarded as a skilful winger and becomes the latest young player to move into the Buccaneers’ set-up after making an impression in South African football’s lower leagues.

Hope FC’s statement also highlighted the wider significance of the transfer for the club, presenting Chaney’s progression as an example of its stated commitment to developing young footballers and helping them reach the highest level.

The club thanked Chaney and his family as he begins the next stage of his career with Orlando Pirates.

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