Orlando Pirates sign teenage winger Edmilson Chaney after Hope FC promotion campaign

Orlando Pirates have signed teenage winger Edmilson Chaney from Hope FC after his impressive performances helped the Cape Town-based club secure promotion to the National First Division.

Chaney was one of Hope FC’s leading contributors during their campaign in the ABC Motsepe League last season, when the ambitious side achieved promotion. His form has now earned him a move to the Buccaneers, who continue to add promising young players to their squad.

Hope FC confirmed the transfer in a statement thanking Chaney for his role in the club’s promotion and describing his move as an example of the pathway they aim to provide for emerging talent.

“Edmilson ‘Millies’ Chaney departs Hope FC after completing a transfer to Orlando Pirates,” the club confirmed.

“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.”

Chaney joined Hope FC after coming through the Cape Town Spurs academy and established himself as one of the team’s standout performers during their time in the ABC Motsepe League.

His contribution was particularly significant as Hope FC pushed for promotion, with the winger now set to continue his development at one of South Africa’s biggest clubs.

The move takes Chaney into the Pirates set-up under head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. He will join a star-studded squad as he looks to build on a breakthrough campaign with Hope FC and take the next step in his career.

For Hope FC, Chaney’s departure represents both the loss of an important player and the fulfilment of a central part of the club’s stated mission: helping young footballers progress to the highest level.

The Cape Town side said the teenager’s journey reflected its commitment to creating opportunities for emerging players. Chaney’s transfer to Orlando Pirates gives him the chance to test himself in a more demanding environment after helping deliver promotion for his former club.

Pirates’ decision to recruit Chaney also underlines their continued focus on identifying and developing young talent. The winger leaves Hope FC having made a strong impression during the club’s promotion campaign and begins a new chapter with one of the country’s most prominent teams.