Orlando Pirates finished second in the Premier Soccer League last season with 50 points, 23 less than champions Mamelodi Sundowns.
The Buccaneers successfully defended their MTN8 and Nedbank Cup crowns after beating Masandawana in the final of both competitions.
The results meant coach Jose Riveiro was almost there and needed to strengthen a few areas to challenge the league and make an impact in the Caf Champions League after exiting in the second preliminary round last season.
The Soweto giants parted ways with Kermit Erasmus, Thabang Monare, Richard Ofori, Siyabonga Mpontshane, Fortune Makaringe, Souaibou Marou, Vincent Pule, Bongani Sam and Lesedi Kapinga.
Bucs have since signed four players to help them challenge for major honours in the 2024/25 season. Apart from the PSL, and the Caf Champions League, Pirates will be aiming at successfully defending their domestic Cup tournaments.
Who are the new faces at Pirates?
1. Thuso Moleleki
The 24-year-old midfielder played a crucial role for Orbit College in the Championship, helping them to finish ninth on the table in their debut season.
Moleleki scored four goals in the 28 matches he featured for his team, but it was his skill and composure on the ball that attracted Bucs' scouts.
He will be adding depth to the team in a busy campaign for the Buccaneers. Moleleki has featured once for Pirates this season.
2. Selaelo Rasebotja
Rasebotja was nicknamed Iniesta at SuperSport United owing to his creativity and ease in creating scoring chances for his teammates. In the concluded campaign, he played 16 games for the Gavin Hunt-led team and scored a goal in the process.
It is not yet clear why the Swanky Boys did not renew his contract, but Bucs capitalised by convincing him to join them.
However, he is yet to make a competitive debut for the Soweto Giants after sustaining an injury during pre-season. The 23-year-old is currently working on his match fitness.
3. Delvi Miguel Vieira aka Gilberto
The Angola international is one of the most experienced players at the club owing to what he has achieved at his former club Petro Atletico and the national team.
The winger won a treble in his home country and took part in the Caf Champions League and the inaugural African Football League. He was also part of the national team that played in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Jose Riveiro brought him to boost the team with international experience; he has so far played four games – two in MTN8 and as many in the Caf Champions League but is yet to feature in the Premier Soccer League.
4. Deano Van Rooyen
The defender was the last player who was signed in the concluded transfer window to strengthen the back four after some key players in the department sustained injuries.
The former Stellenbosch captain played a crucial role in helping the Steve Barker-led outfit win the Carling Knockout and qualify for the Caf Confederation Cup.
He has played four games for Bucs this season across all competitions.