Monnapule Saleng’s football journey is a story of determination and rise through the ranks.
Born in South Africa, the winger first caught national attention while playing for Free State Stars in the GladAfrica Championship.
His breakout season saw him score 13 goals, earning him a move to Soweto giants Orlando Pirates in 2021.
Saleng initially struggled for game time and was loaned out to Moroka Swallows.
However, his stellar performances there forced Pirates to take notice.
He returned in 2022 and instantly made an impact, scoring regularly and contributing to the club’s trophy haul.
In the 2022/23 season, he was named Orlando Pirates’ Players’ Player of the Season, a reflection of his growing stature.
AfricaSoccer.com can confirm that Saleng has been instrumental in Bucs’ recent successes.
His blistering pace, sharp finishing, and ability to take on defenders made him one of the most feared wingers in the DStv Premiership.
He also broke into the Bafana Bafana squad, earning call-ups for both friendlies and competitive fixtures.
Despite his recent absence from Pirates’ squad, national team selectors have continued to include him, with his latest appearance coming in a CHAN qualifier against Egypt.
From the streets of the Free State to Bafana Bafana stardom, Saleng’s rise has inspired many.
But his future at Orlando Pirates now hangs in the balance as contractual disputes threaten to derail what has been a promising career.
Who is the new team for Monnapule Saleng?
As of now, Monnapule Saleng has not officially joined a new team, but the speculation surrounding his next destination is intensifying.
With the player reportedly preparing a transfer request at the end of the season, several clubs are monitoring his situation closely.
Earlier reports linked Saleng with a potential move to Egyptian giants Al Ahly, although Orlando Pirates firmly denied receiving any official offers.
The club also dismissed claims of interest from other Middle Eastern teams, calling them “fabricated.” However, insiders continue to suggest that interest exists—just not yet formalized.
AfricaSoccer.com understands that despite being under contract with Pirates, Saleng is eager to find a new club where he will feel valued both financially and professionally.
A close source confirmed that the winger is “not happy with how he has been treated” and is actively considering options abroad and locally, including rivals within the Premier Soccer League.
Interestingly, rumours have swirled about a possible move to Kaizer Chiefs, although neither club has commented publicly.
A switch between these Soweto giants would be controversial but not unprecedented.
For now, Saleng remains a Pirates player—albeit one on the fringes. Unless relations with the club improve, the next transfer window could bring the long-awaited move that allows the winger to reset and revive his career.
Monnapule Saleng transfer news: The full story so far
Monnapule Saleng’s name continues to dominate the transfer headlines, with growing uncertainty surrounding his future at Orlando Pirates.
Once seen as an untouchable fan favourite, the 26-year-old winger has not featured for the club since December 2024 and is now widely expected to leave the Buccaneers.
His current contract runs until 2027 after Pirates exercised a two-year extension clause.
However, multiple sources suggest that Saleng is preparing to submit a formal transfer request at the end of the season due to dissatisfaction with his salary and treatment at the club.
AfricaSoccer.com understands that the player is deeply unhappy with his reported R70,000 monthly wage—significantly less than some teammates earning up to R500,000.
This pay disparity, combined with a reportedly failed move to Al Ahly, triggered Saleng’s decision to stop attending training, which led to his exclusion from matchday squads.
Pirates, for their part, have categorically denied receiving any offers for Saleng, including from clubs in the Middle East.
In an official statement, the club called the rumours “fabricated” and maintained that the player is still valued and training with the team.
However, insiders say the relationship between Saleng and the club’s management has soured beyond repair.
There have also been rumours linking Saleng to Kaizer Chiefs, although no deal has materialised.
Meanwhile, fans continue to voice frustration over the ongoing impasse, with many calling for a swift resolution before the situation further affects team morale and the player’s career trajectory.
Whether Saleng will remain at Pirates or secure a move elsewhere remains one of the most compelling sagas in South African football.
With the next transfer window fast approaching, all eyes will be on the winger’s next move.
