Orlando Pirates News Today: Decision on Ouaddou’s Future Made, Transfer Updates, & More

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Orlando Pirates News Today: Decision on Ouaddou’s Future Made, Transfer Updates, & More

The latest from Orlando Pirates, in the last 24 hours, including ex-Bucs star being axed by former Kaizer Chiefs coach, Abdeslam Ouaddou, decides on Soweto giants’ future, and more.

Ex-Pirates, Sundowns stars among those axed by former Chiefs coach

Sekhukhune United have rung the changes ahead of Cedric Kaze’s arrival, wielding the axe on six players, including high-profile stars Thabang Monare, Bradley Grobler and Rivaldo Coetzee.

During his single campaign with Babina Noko, Grobler notched an impressive 11 goals and two assists across 26 appearances in all competitions.

Monare’s departure may surprise some given his immense leadership stature. He was a regular fixture last season, registering 27 Betway Premiership appearances with two goals, alongside five appearances in knockout competitions.

On the other hand, versatile midfielder Coetzee exits the club despite only arriving in April 2026. The former Mamelodi Sundowns star had penned a short-term contract and ultimately made just three appearances for the side. The club also severed ties with Siphosonke Langa, Katlego Mohamme, and Ryan Baartman.

Bradley Grobler of Sekhukhune United
Bradley Grobler of Sekhukhune United. Photo: Sekhukhune United

“The Club has decided not to renew contracts of the following players: 1. Bradley Grobler 2. ⁠Thabang Monare 3. ⁠Sikhosonke Langa 4. ⁠Katlego Mohamme 5. ⁠Ryan Baartman 6. ⁠Rivaldo Coetzee, thank you for your immense contribution towards Babina Noko. We wish you well,” reads the Sekhukhune statement.

Pirates’ Ouaddou reprieve?

For many coaches, a debut season like Abdeslam Ouaddou’s at Orlando Pirates would be difficult to improve upon.

A league title. A domestic treble. A place in club history. After just one season in charge, the Moroccan has already achieved what many coaches spend years trying to accomplish.

Ouaddou may have decided to return to continue the project he started at the Buccaneers, despite speculation over his future following the conclusion of last season.

“The coach decided to stay,” a source told Soccer Laduma.

Abdeslam Ouaddou holding the PSL trophy.
Abdeslam Ouaddou holding the PSL trophy. Photo: Orlando Pirates

“He believes that with the team having qualified for the CAF Champions League, he can challenge for the title. He’s got the support of the management. Relations further improved after his success. It’s his choice to come back. And he’s got a contract to honour,” they added.

Ex-Pirates star back in action?

After more than a year on the sidelines, former Orlando Pirates and Chippa United midfielder Siphelo Baloni could be closing in on a return to professional football.

“Motsepe Foundation Championship outfit Leicesterford City are on the verge of signing the talented midfielder, offering him a platform to rebuild his career following an extended injury layoff,” Soccer Laduma reported.

“Siphelo Baloni might play for Leicesterford – I don’t know the length of the contract yet.”

The move comes on the back of Baloni’s own emotional announcement on social media, in which the midfielder signalled that he is finally fit and ready to reclaim his place in the game.

“Today, I stand healed. Looking back, I realise that my injury didn’t break me – it built me. It strengthened my character, deepened my faith, and reminded me that every setback carries a lesson. I return with a grateful heart, a stronger mind, and a renewed hunger for the game. The comeback starts now. Healed. Grateful. Ready,” he wrote.

<!-- Author Start -->Willis Sob<!-- Author End -->

Willis Sob

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Willis Sob is a sports betting expert and journalist covering Nigeria and South Africa, with 16 years of experience. With a background in journalism, reporting and programme production, he specialises in football odds, and his work has appeared on OK Africa and GOAL, as well as TV, radio and podcasts.

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