Orlando Pirates appear to have ended their assessment of Zambian forward Enock Sakala Jr., who was part of the club’s early pre-season training camp at the start of July but has since returned home, with growing indications that he will not be offered a contract ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
The 23-year-old striker, who last turned out for Chippa United, was handed an opportunity to impress the Buccaneers’ technical team during their initial training sessions in Johannesburg as the club began preparing for the new season.
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Sakala, who also had a stint in Egypt with Modern Sport, arrived on trial looking to secure a permanent deal, but his time with Pirates has now come to an end.
According to a source close to the situation, Sakala sustained an untimely injury during the trial period, which brought his stint to a premature close.
“Enock Sakala Jr. has gone back home to Zambia after picking up an injury while on trial at Pirates. He was doing well and showing signs of hunger, but the knock proved to be costly. He is unlikely to get the deal now and it’s unclear if he will be getting another opportunity at the club any time soon,” the source explained.
Despite showing some promise in training, the timing of the injury disrupted any momentum he was building, and the club has since moved on in their search for more firepower.
Pirates are believed to still be open to adding a striker to their squad if a suitable candidate becomes available, with the technical team keen to strengthen the attacking department ahead of a demanding 2025/26 season.
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Tshegofatso Mabasa and Evidence Makgopa currently led the line for the Soweto giants, and both have impressed with their presence and goal contributions.
Boitumelo Radiopane is also pushing for more minutes after a long-term injury setback, while new recruit Yanela Mbuthuma has joined the fold following his move from Richards Bay FC.
