Latest news with #Maela
The South African
3 days ago
- Sport
- The South African
Orlando Pirates news: New captain dawns after Maela exit
The 2025/26 season ushers in a quiet but significant shift at Orlando Pirates following the departure of long-serving captain Innocent Maela. With his contract expiring at the end of June, the club now faces the task of appointing a new figure to carry the armband. As the Buccaneers prepare for their MTN8 quarter-final against Polokwane City, speculation has turned toward the identity of Maela's successor. For now, defender Nkosinathi Sibisi is understood to be the leading candidate. Since arriving from Golden Arrows, Sibisi has impressed with his composed performances and understated authority, qualities that have quietly positioned him at the front of the leadership queue. 'Sibisi is the logical choice to take over permanently,' a source close to the club noted. 'But it might not be a straightforward appointment.' Rather than naming a single permanent captain, Orlando Pirates are reportedly considering a leadership committee reflecting the depth of senior players in the squad. Olisa Ndah and Tapelo Xoki, both of whom have worn the armband in Maela's absence, remain under serious consideration. Ndah offers a calm, measured presence shaped by international experience, while Xoki has become a vocal organiser at the back, earning respect for his consistency and command. Insiders suggest the technical team may rotate the captaincy based on form, fitness, and availability, a flexible model designed to serve the demands of a long and unpredictable season. 'There's still a lot to assess,' the source added. 'The coaches are looking at Ndah and Xoki as part of a wider leadership group. It could shift depending on who's on the pitch.' Meanwhile, the club's long-term planning continues. Nineteen-year-old defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi, recently promoted to the senior side, has drawn internal praise for his composure and work ethic. While still early in his career, he is already being earmarked as a future leader within the Orlando Pirates setup. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Also, Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
04-07-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Orlando Pirates: Bucs legend returns to Mayfair!
Orlando Pirates recently released this player following his legendary stint at the Bucs. Now, he is back. Orlando Pirates recently released FOUR players. Former club captain, Innocent Maela joined Miguel Timm, Thabiso Monyane and Paseka Mako out of Mayfairs door. However, Maela is far from done with the Bucs as he is back in Mayfair. He is set to take up a new role with the Bucs. A few weeks ago, Maela's playing contract came to an end. Furthermore, it was not renewed. Meaning, his playing days at Pirates are over. However, that does not mean he has cut ties with the Bucs – at all. In fact, the Bucs legend is already back at Mayfair working with Pirates. He was part of a group of Pirates legends that welcomed their new signings to the club 'Club legends including Tebogo Moloi, Edward Motale, and former captains Lucky Lekgwathi, Happy Jele, and Innocent Maela officially welcomed the new players into the Pirates family,' Pirates confirmed in an official statement. So, it is clear that he remains a part of the club and that he will not be playing for them next season. Furtherore, reports claim that he has made peace with the fact that he is no longer a Bucs player. Additionally, he is preparing for a new role at Pirates. 'While the club has not officially confirmed Maela's retirement or outlined his new position, multiple insiders suggest that the veteran has made peace with the idea of hanging up his boots and is eager to continue serving the team in a different capacity,' the insider stated on SNL. 'He's always been a leader, calm, disciplined, and passionate about the badge,' a source close to the club revealed. 'This transition was a natural step. He still has so much to offer, especially when it comes to helping the next generation understand the culture and expectations at Pirates,' he added. Therefore, he is in the process of transitioning into a new role. One that will involve helping to develope the future Bucs stars. However, his new role has not been confirmed yet. Finally, new head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou must appoint a new Pirates captain following Maela's departure. The favourites to wear the Bucs captaincy armband next season are Tapelo Xoki and Nkosinathi Sibisi. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211 Also, Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
25-06-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Orlando Pirates - Full list: Players facing likely exits under Ouaddou
Orlando Pirates have confirmed the departure of four players. Another four face likely exits. Orlando Pirates' squad overhaul is well underway. To date, FOUR Bucs player departures have been confirmed – Innocent Maela, Thabiso Monyane, Paseka Mako and Miguel Timm. However, more player exits are on the cards at Mayfair. As mentioned, Maela, Monyane, Mako and Timm have all officially left Pirates. Maela has left a void in the captaincy prompting the need for new head coach Abdeslam Ouaddoua to select a new captain. Tapelo Xoki and Nkosinathi Sibisi are the favourites for Pirates armband. Meanwhile, Monyane and Mako are both training with Kaizer Chiefs. It remains to be seen who will scoop up Timm. Meanwhile, this Pirates quartet all face likely departures. Katlego Otladisa and 'Gilberto' are facing likely releases. Additionally, Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo and Siphelo Baloni both face uncertain futures at the club, according to SNL. Ouaddou arrival signals imminent change at the Bucs. Pirates have signed NINE new players including with these EIGHT new signings joining Sipho Mbule. Ouddou's first signing has been confirmed with Pirates hijacking this Kaizer Chiefs transfer target. Also, the Bucs have enquired about this R20 million Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns target. Meanwhile, Ouaddou's Pirates transfer targets have been revealed. Therefore, more Bucs player movements are on the cards. Stay tuned to The South African as we reveal all the latest Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns player movements – signings and departures – as they happen. Let us know your thoughts by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
![Pirates find Maela, Mako successor [video]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thesouthafrican.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F06%2FGtKzQbtXQAAN82I-1.jpeg.optimal.jpeg&w=3840&q=100)
The South African
12-06-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Pirates find Maela, Mako successor [video]
Orlando Pirates will have to tap into the left-back market this window after losing two experienced players before next season. Pirates will see both captain Innocent Maela and long-serving star Paseka Mako depart the club at the end of the June. Maela, who saw his game time reduce more and more over the last two seasons, has a big decision to make. After saying goodbye to the Pirates fans on the field, he has reportedly been offered a role off it. Mako is also a long-serving player at Pirates who joined the club as far back as 2018. During his time at the Buccaneers, he amassed 173 appearances, mainly from left-back. Read the full version of the ' Orlando Pirates sign Innocent Maela and Paseko Mako replacement!' article. The departures of both Maela and Mako open a huge gap at left-back for Pirates. In fact, even before these departures they were already linked to players in those positions. The likes of Fawaaz Basadien as well as Vuyo Letlapa. While one of those two can still be signed, the Sea Robbers are not waiting on those pursuits. According to RSA writer Austin Ditlhobolo, they have already signed Nkosikhona Ndaba from Richards Bay FC. Looking for quick updates? Watch News in a Minute videos on The South African's YouTube page for all the key stories you need to know! Catch all the latest videos on news, lifestyle, travel, sports and more – there's always something to watch! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and BlueSky to stay connected and get your news on the go!
The South African
10-06-2025
- Sport
- The South African
NEW: Orlando Pirates make approach for exciting SA U20 star!
Orlando Pirates look to be moving like a team possessed before the transfer window even opens ahead of next season. Pirates will see themselves begin a new era under a new coach and also seemingly a vastly changed squad. The club are rumoured to have already reached transfer agreements with at least six players in that regard. One of those players is thought to be Richards's Bay FC left-back Nkosikhona Ndaba. But having lost two experienced players in that position, they will need more than just one signing. Pirates will see both captain Innocent Maela and long-serving star Paseka Mako depart the club at the end of the June. Maela, who saw his game time reduce more and more over the last two seasons, has a big decision to make. After saying goodbye to the Pirates fans on the field, he has reportedly been offered a role off it. The 33-year-old has yet to confirm whether he will take up that opportunity and hang up his boots, or continue playing elsewhere. Mako on the other hand, leaves the cub as a free agent and is reportedly Kaizer Chiefs -bound. Now it has been reported by Karabo Phasha of SuperSport that Pirates have made an approach for Neo Rapoo. The young left-back plays for SuperSport United and also played every game for the SA U20 side that won the U20 Afcon in Egypt last month. '𝐏𝐢𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐄𝐧𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐑𝐚𝐩𝐨𝐨 Orlando Pirates have enquired about the availability of U20 & SuperSport United LB Neo Rapoo. Pirates have already called his agent a few weeks ago about the possibilities around him.' He posted on his official X account. Pirates fans, is Rapoo the right signing to replace Maela and Mako? Let us know by clicking on the comment tab. Or by emailing info@ or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. You can also follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest news.
