Orlando Pirates face right-back shortage ahead of transfer deadline

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou says the club must address a shortage of right-backs before the transfer window closes on 21 September.

Kamogelo Sebelebele is currently the only recognised specialist in the position, while other members of the squad would have to provide cover or play there as emergency options.

The issue could become more serious if Pirates qualify for the CAF Champions League group stage, with the Soweto club potentially facing a congested fixture schedule.

Ouaddou said Sebelebele could not be expected to play every match and warned that relying on makeshift solutions would not always suit the team’s approach.

“You’re right it’s a big concern. I love Sebelebele but I cannot push him for sixty games because he is not a robot. I can find some solutions and emergency options, but the emergency plan will not work all the time considering the way we want to play the game.”

Gamphani Lungu is among the players who can fill in at right-back, but Ouaddou believes Pirates would benefit from signing someone whose main role is in that position.

The coach said the club’s scouting department understood the need because Pirates had released both Bandile Shandu and Deano van Rooyen, leaving the squad without sufficient specialist cover.

Rather than dictate the recruitment process, Ouaddou said he would leave the decision to the scouting team, while making clear that the position remained an area of concern.

If Pirates do not strengthen at right-back by the 21 September deadline, Ouaddou will work with the players already available to him.

The club’s need for greater depth comes as it plans for the demands of domestic football and a possible run in the CAF Champions League, where the additional group-stage fixtures could place further pressure on Sebelebele.

Champions League finals

UEFA has confirmed that the Allianz Arena in Munich will host the Champions League final in 2028, with Barcelona’s Camp Nou selected for the 2029 final.