Monnapule Saleng’s prolonged absence from Orlando Pirates continues to raise eyebrows, as speculation grows over a contract standoff and his future at the Soweto giants.
The 27-year-old, once a key figure in Pirates’ attacking unit, has not featured in a single match since December 2024, despite being fit and available.
While the club remains officially silent on the matter, multiple sources suggest a behind-the-scenes contract dispute is at the heart of his continued omission.
AfricaSoccer.com understands that the impasse may be linked to a contractual “option clause” — a legal mechanism often used by clubs to unilaterally extend a player’s stay, typically without renegotiating salary terms.
Legal expert Mpho Nkontlha recently explained that such clauses are common in South African football but rarely favour the player, particularly when their market value increases significantly over time.
Saleng, who reportedly earns around R70,000 per month, is said to be seeking a revised deal that better reflects his contributions over the last two seasons.
The winger was named Pirates’ Players’ Player of the Season in 2022/23 and helped the club lift multiple domestic trophies with his consistent performances.
In the latest twist, Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro — whose own future at the club remains unresolved with his contract set to expire in June — has acknowledged the situation but offered few details.
“It’s not my role to speak much about that issue,” Riveiro said last week. “I just wish the best for both sides.”
Insiders say the Spanish coach remains an admirer of Saleng and may even consider his reintegration a priority — if he signs a new deal himself.
For now, though, Saleng’s exile drags on, and fans are left wondering whether the winger has already played his last match in black and white.
