TS Galaxy move quickly to sign former Orlando Pirates midfielder Dimpho Madalane

TS Galaxy have strengthened their squad by signing former Orlando Pirates youngster Dimpho Madalane after FIFA lifted restrictions on the club’s player registrations.

The 23-year-old midfielder had been without a club since Pirates released him in the middle of last season. He has now joined Galaxy, securing another opportunity to establish himself in the elite division.

Madalane, who comes from Mhluzi in Middelburg, first attracted attention during the 2024 Pirates Under-21 Cup. He was named Player of the Tournament after impressing scouts, earning him a move into the Soweto giants’ set-up.

He was subsequently included in Pirates’ pre-season tour of Spain, where he made his unofficial debut against Sevilla.

Known by the nickname ‘Khalabemgeza’, Madalane was regarded by some as a potential successor to former Pirates captain Happy Jele. The comparison was partly based on their shared roots in the same township in Mpumalanga.

However, Madalane’s time with the Buccaneers came to an end after he played for the club’s ABC Motsepe League feeder side, Pele Pele FC, under coach Joseph ‘Duku-Duku’ Makhanya.

Following his departure from Pirates, the midfielder returned to his hometown by joining Middelburg United in the ABC Motsepe League. He had been preparing to undergo assessments at three other clubs Gomora United, Casric Stars and Kruger United before TS Galaxy acted to complete the move.

Middelburg United manager Lucas ‘Makhokhoba’ Sebona confirmed that Madalane had signed for a club in the top flight.

“Yes, it’s true, the boy is signing with TS Galaxy. I sent them his clearance yesterday [Thursday],” Sebona told KickOff.

The transfer gives Madalane a second chance to play in the Premier Soccer League and the chance to demonstrate that the potential he showed at youth level can also be realised in senior football.

Galaxy’s move comes after FIFA’s player registration restrictions were removed, allowing the club to reinforce its squad without delay. Madalane’s arrival adds another player with local experience and a point to prove after his brief spell with Pirates.

The midfielder’s route to the Rockets has taken him from recognition at the Pirates Under-21 Cup to the club’s Spanish tour, then through Pele Pele FC and Middelburg United. He will now look to revive his career in the elite division with TS Galaxy.