Versatile Sipho Mbule can spark a new era at Orlando Pirates

Comment by Obakeng Meletse

Orlando Pirates have sent a strong message to their rivals ahead of the new Premiership season, stepping up their transfer activity in a bid to close the gap on serial champions Mamelodi Sundowns. 

With their eyes firmly set on the league title, the Buccaneers have made a significant early move in the market by securing the services of former Sundowns midfielder Sipho Mbule – one of the most naturally gifted midfielders in South African football.

While Sundowns are proudly flying the South African flag at the Fifa Club World Cup, Pirates are plotting their downfall.

The shock signing of Mbule from the Brazilians has not only stunned many, but also signalled that Pirates mean business. 

Mbule’s arrival is more than just a high-profile acquisition – it represents a calculated step towards building a squad capable of dethroning the current champions.

Linked in the past with Kaizer Chiefs, Mbule has long been admired for his footballing talent.

Despite facing a fair share of off-field challenges, he remains a top-tier player when focused, and it is no surprise that both Chiefs and Pirates were monitoring his availability.

Now, Pirates have pulled the trigger, and if Mbule can finally realise his full potential, this could turn out to be one of the most inspired signings of the season.

Still only 27, the former SuperSport United midfielder was part of a dominant Sundowns set-up under coach Rulani Mokwena, and enjoyed glimpses of success.

However, his recent loan spell at Sekhukhune United ended abruptly, with disciplinary issues once again casting a shadow over his career.

The move to Pirates now provides a timely opportunity for a reset – a chance to finally move past those hurdles, and focus on what he does best: playing football.

It’s a move that aligns perfectly with the new direction at Mayfair, with Pirates set to embark on a fresh chapter under new head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.

The Moroccan tactician replaces Jose Riveiro, who left after his contract expired at the end of last season.

Ouaddou inherits a team with a strong foundation of youth and flair that was built over the last few seasons, and Mbule could be the missing piece in a side on the cusp of real progress.

This is arguably the best time to join the Sea Robbers. With a youthful squad already brimming with potential, what the team needed was a touch of finesse, composure and quality in depth – particularly in midfield. 

And Mbule offers all of that.

He has the ability to control the tempo, break down defences with his vision and stay composed under pressure, making him a vital cog in transitions and build-up play.

More than his technical skill, it’s his versatility that will be of great value to Ouaddou.

Whether deployed as a deep-lying playmaker, a central pivot or in a more advanced role, Mbule gives the coach multiple options –something Pirates lacked towards the end of last season, when injuries and fatigue set in.

As strange as it may sound considering his recent struggles, Mbule might be exactly the kind of impact player needed to tilt the scales in the title race.

But for this move to bear fruit, it all comes down to the player’s mindset. 

If he can finally commit fully to his craft and put distractions behind him, his time at Pirates could mark a major turning point – not only in his own career, but in the Buccaneers’ pursuit of long-awaited league glory.