Orlando Pirates squad size prompts loan interest from PSL clubs

Orlando Pirates’ extensive first-team squad is attracting interest from several Premier Soccer League clubs, with potential loan moves being considered before the transfer window closes.

Sources have told the Siya crew that Chippa United, Siwelele FC and Orbit College FC are among the clubs monitoring the situation at the Soweto club. The teams are understood to be assessing whether they could bring in Pirates players who may struggle to secure regular first-team football this season.

However, it remains unclear whether Orlando Pirates will approve any temporary departures. No decision has been announced publicly, and head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou is expected to continue evaluating his options as the campaign develops.

The possibility of loan moves has emerged after Ouaddou acknowledged the difficulty of managing such a large playing group. Pirates are understood to have more than 40 players under contract, despite releasing a number of players during the off-season.

The size of the squad has become a particular talking point after Pirates began the defence of their Betway Premiership title with a 2-0 win over newly promoted Milford FC at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday. Oswin Appollis and Tshepang Moremi scored in a convincing opening-day victory.

Pirates’ starting line-up included many of the players who played important roles in last season’s historic treble-winning campaign. The club has nevertheless strengthened significantly during the current transfer window, adding a series of new players to an already sizeable squad.

Among the recruits are Ghampani Lungu, Mthetheleli Mthiyane, Neo Rapoo, Matome Mmolai, Sbangani Zulu, Bohlale Ngwato, Thapelo Mokobodi and Sebastian Pedersen.

Although several players have left the club since the end of last season, the Buccaneers still possess one of the largest squads in the league. That depth could create opportunities for other PSL sides if Pirates decide that some members of their group would benefit from playing more regularly elsewhere.

Ouaddou’s comments after the victory over Milford are likely to increase speculation over the futures of players who were not involved in the opening match or who face strong competition for places. A loan arrangement could allow those players to gain consistent minutes while remaining contracted to Pirates.

For now, the club has not confirmed that any players will be made available. Ouaddou is expected to assess his squad throughout the early stages of the season before the Soweto giants decide whether temporary moves are required.

The interest from Chippa United, Siwelele FC and Orbit College FC underlines the attention being given to Pirates’ squad situation ahead of the transfer deadline. Further developments will depend on the coach’s assessment and whether the club is prepared to sanction loan transfers.