Orlando Pirates are poised to make another high-profile signing ahead of the 2025/26 season, but the incoming talent may come at the expense of an existing squad member. According to sources close to the club, the anticipated announcement of Malian midfielder Abdoulaye Mariko could signal the end of the road for Angolan international Gilberto.
Mariko, 23, landed in Johannesburg on Thursday to join the Buccaneers for pre-season preparations.
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Pirates have reportedly beaten off stiff competition from clubs around the continent to secure the services of the highly rated central midfielder.
Mariko brings with him valuable experience, having featured in CAF Champions League matches for Malian club Djoliba.
He is expected to be part of the group travelling to Spain next month, where Pirates will face Bolton Wanderers, Pafos, Las Palmas, and Granada in a series of friendly fixtures.
However, Mariko’s arrival has sparked renewed speculation around the future of Gilberto, who rejoined Petro de Luanda on loan in January.
The 24-year-old midfielder initially signed for Pirates in July last year from the same Angolan club but struggled to cement a regular place in the squad before being loaned back.
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A source familiar with the situation told the Siya crew: “It’s not looking good for Gilberto. From what we understand, he could be one of the players placed on the release list. There’s a strong possibility that he either moves on permanently or gets loaned out again. That’s why Mariko was targeted – to potentially take his place in the club’s available foreign slots. The new guy is already in the country, and his announcement is imminent. He’s expected to be part of the squad heading to Spain for pre-season,” concluded the source.
While no official word has come from Pirates regarding Gilberto’s future, the writing appears to be on the wall, with the Soweto giants having already confirmed eight new signings this week.
