As initially reported by the Siya crew over a year ago, Monnapule Saleng's future at Orlando Pirates had been decided well in advance.
Despite speculation and media reports surfacing recently about his two-year contract extension, sources close to the Buccaneers confirmed that the decision was made as early as February last year.
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Saleng, who had an outstanding 2022/23 season, winning both the Players' Player of the Season and the MTN8 Last Man Standing accolades at the PSL awards in May 2023, surprisingly found himself struggling for game-time under Jose Riveiro.
His reduced role led to speculation that Pirates were considering sending him out on loan, especially since he was nearing the end of his contract after joining the club from Free State Stars in 2021.
However, plans at the Soweto giants took a turn following Thembinkosi Lorch's high-profile transfer to Mamelodi Sundowns.
While his contract situation appears settled, Saleng has been noticeably absent from Pirates' matchday squads since December, when he last featured against Al Ahly in the CAF Champions League at Orlando Stadium.
Unconfirmed reports suggest that his absence might be linked to a failed overseas move and a contractual dispute within the club, although no official statement has been made on the matter.
Currently, Saleng is on national duty with Bafana Bafana, taking part in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers against Egypt.
He played in the first leg fixture, which ended in a 1-1 draw at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein.
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As Pirates fans eagerly await clarity on his future at the club, Saleng's situation remains one of the most intriguing storylines in South African football at the moment.
Saleng's representatives from P Management Sports have so far said, in their recent official statement, "This matter involves significant issues at the core of the employer-employee relationship that require resolution. Our client remains committed to addressing these matters through the appropriate legal and professional channels."
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