The ongoing uncertainty surrounding Monnapule Saleng's future at Orlando Pirates may soon take a new turn, with those close to the winger now hoping for a loan move – even if it means staying in the local league.
The 27-year-old, once one of the Buccaneers’ most electric attacking players, has not featured for the club since early December despite reportedly being fully fit.
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With little movement on the alleged long-running dispute – widely believed to involve contractual and salary issues – Saleng’s camp is now understood to be pushing for a fresh start elsewhere to get his career back on track.
While speculation continues over a possible move to Egyptian giants Al Ahly – especially in light of former Pirates coach Jose Riveiro being tipped to take over at the club – a local option may present a more immediate opportunity for Saleng to return to regular football.
One club that has shown concrete interest according to sources is Orbit College FC, a Motsepe Foundation Championship team that has qualified for the promotional playoffs and could soon be competing in the Betway Premiership.
Sources close to the situation indicate that Orbit would be very interested in bringing Saleng in on loan if they achieve promotion.
“Orbit would be keen to have him under his mentor Pogiso Makhoye if they get promotion to the Betway Premiership,” said a source. “It’s where Saleng started his journey before going on to Free State Stars and then Pirates. There’s real history and familiarity there.”
Orbit already have a working relationship with Pirates, currently hosting three Buccaneers players on loan – Gomolemo Khoto, Siyabulela Mabele, and Ndumiso Ngiba – and are reportedly open to extending that link should they move up to the top flight.
Saleng’s absence from Pirates since their CAF Champions League clash with Al Ahly on December 7 has been a major talking point in South African football.
The goalless draw was his last appearance in club colours, despite a solid performance in March for Bafana Bafana during an African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifier in Bloemfontein.
While the situation has dragged on with little official communication from the club, sources maintain that the player’s sidelining was never due to conflict with Riveiro, but rather contract-related matters.
Attempts were reportedly made by Saleng’s camp to secure a move to Al Ahly as early as January, but the deal never materialised.
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If Riveiro’s expected appointment at Al Ahly is confirmed, fresh developments in Saleng’s future may follow swiftly.
But for now, a local loan could serve as the ideal lifeline – and with Orbit College in the mix, it may offer a sentimental and strategic route back to the top.
