Blow to Orlando Pirates as key midfielder is ruled out for the rest of the season

Orlando Pirates might be forced into the market for midfield reinforcements following news that Sihle Nduli will be out for an extended period.

The midfielder suffered a tibia fracture in a 3-1 win over Golden Arrows in November and needed surgery but it was hoped that he could return early this year.

However, according to KickOff, the former Stellenbosch FC midfielder is unlikely to play again this season as his recovery will take longer than expected, forcing Pirates to potentially dip into the January transfer market for a midfielder.

“Nduli is out and probably for the rest of the season,” a source from Pirates told the outlet, casting doubts over Nduli’s involvement again in 2025-26.

What options do Pirates have in midfield?

The 30-year-old had been a mainstay in midfield since signing from Stellenbosch in the off-season, playing 17 games before his setback.

In his absence, coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has been relying on ever-green veteran Makhehlene Makhaula, Thalente Mbatha and Masindi Nemtajela as his central midfield options with Abdoulaye Mariko also being used sparingly.

With Andre de Jong joining this month from Stellies, it remains to be seen if the Moroccan coach will be confident enough to head into the second half of the season with the four midfielders or whether he will deem them not sufficient and look for additions to the squad.

Nduli had been enjoying a good season before his injury as he was ever-present with the other four partnering him.