Orlando Pirates’ Monnapule Saleng eyes exit amidst lack of playing time
Orlando Pirates’ Monnapule Saleng, once hailed as a superstar of South African football, is reportedly considering a departure from the club at the conclusion of the current season. The talented winger is seeking more regular playing time to bolster his chances of reclaiming his spot in the national team.
After a standout 2022-23 season, where he was crowned the best player in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) with an impressive tally of 15 goals and 11 assists across all competitions, Saleng has encountered significant challenges in the 2023-24 campaign.
Despite his previous successes, the 26-year-old has struggled to secure a consistent place in both the Orlando Pirates starting lineup and the South African national team, Bafana Bafana.
Saleng’s frustrations came to a head despite his noteworthy performance, including a pivotal brace in the team’s 3-2 victory against Kaizer Chiefs on March 9.
Despite his efforts, he has failed to cement his position on the right side of the pitch under the guidance of coach Jose Riveiro.
Sources close to the player have revealed that Saleng has expressed his desire to seek opportunities elsewhere, driven by his discontent over the lack of game time at Orlando Pirates.
It’s understood that he intends to formally request a transfer at the end of the season.
While Saleng has not yet officially confirmed his decision, his current statistics reflect his diminished role within the team.
With just 3 goals and an assist in 15 appearances, including only 8 starts, in the ongoing 2023/2024 PSL season, Saleng’s desire for a fresh start is becoming increasingly apparent.
As the season progresses, football enthusiasts eagerly await updates on Saleng’s future destination and the potential impact of his departure on both Orlando Pirates and South African football at large.
