Orlando Pirates’ latest recruit, midfielder Abdoulaye Mariko, was recently seen undergoing medical assessments with the club, despite awaiting his official unveiling.
The 23-year-old talent touched down in Johannesburg on Thursday, having reportedly committed to a two-year contract with an optional extension, as first reported by iDiski Times.
The Buccaneers successfully navigated a competitive transfer market, fending off interest from several prominent North African clubs to secure the services of the defensive midfielder.
Mariko brings valuable experience, including seven appearances in the CAF Champions League for his former club, Djoliba, who are celebrated as 24-time champions of the Malian Première Division.
His arrival signifies a significant strengthening of Pirates’ central midfield, making him the fourth such signing in the current transfer window, joining Sipho Mbule, Sihle Nduli, and Masindi Nemtajela.
Intriguingly, despite no formal announcement, Mariko was featured in a video on the club’s social media platforms undergoing his routine medical examination.
MARIKO JOINS PIRATES EIGHT NEW SIGNINGS
With Pirates’ official pre-season commencing on Monday, and a scheduled return to Spain this month for high-profile friendly fixtures against Bolton Wanderers, Pafos, Las Palmas, and Granada, Mariko is poised to integrate quickly and prepare for the challenges ahead.
Mariko will be part of the Sea Robbers when they conduct their pre-season in Spain for the second year in a row, a strategic decision first implemented during the time of former Spanish coach Jose Riveiro, who has since left the club.
This choice signals a continued belief in Spain as an ideal location for their preparations. It allows the team to access top-tier training grounds and potentially engage with strong European opposition, laying a robust groundwork for the upcoming season.
