Monnapule Saleng's future with Orlando Pirates could depend on the fate of head coach Jose Riveiro, sources have suggested.
The winger has yet to return to training with the Buccaneers, having last played for the club in December.
Read: Riveiro Hints At Pirates Future Amid Contract Uncertainty?
Despite featuring for South Africa in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers against Egypt, Saleng's status at Pirates remains uncertain.
Ahead of their top-of-the-table clash against Mamelodi Sundowns last Sunday, Pirates confirmed only the return of Yanga Madiba and Azola Tshobeni from Bafana Bafana's CHAN squad, raising concerns over Saleng's absence.
"Yanga Madiba and Azola Tshobeni have meanwhile rejoined the squad after travelling to Egypt as part of South Africa's squad participating in African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers," the club stated on its official website at the time.
Pirates' supporters are anxious to learn the fate of one of their most talented attackers. However, indications are that Saleng's situation could improve if Riveiro remains at the club beyond this season.
The Spanish coach, who signed a three-year deal in 2022, is nearing the final stretch of his contract, which expires on June 30, 2025.
According to sources, Riveiro could be offered an extension, though both the coach and the club have remained tight-lipped about any negotiations.
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If Riveiro stays, he may play a crucial role in facilitating Saleng's return to the squad, offering the 27-year-old a fresh chance to reignite his Pirates career.
"He (Saleng) was one of the first names on the coach's line-ups. It is without a doubt that he is one of the players whose talent the coach admires. The coach would love to have him in his team again even if it's beyond this season," said the source.
