Orlando Pirates set to offload up to seven key players soon!
Orlando Pirates plan to cut their squad by up to seven players, with goalkeeper Gumede nearing a move to third-tier side.
Orlando Pirates are set to offload up to seven key players before the transfer window closes, according to Soccer Laduma.
Pirates plan to significantly trim their squad, with insiders revealing the club aims to let go or loan out up to seven players potentially at the end of September. The club’s decision to reduce their squad comes as they look to streamline operations and manage a squad that has grown too large.
The players set to leave include goalkeeper Sphamandla Gumede, defenders Sandile Mthethwa and Bandile Shandu, and midfielders Siphelo Baloni, Azola Tshobeni, Goodman Mosele, and Katlego Otladisa. Insiders report that some of these players have already attracted interest, while others still require evaluation to determine the best course of action for their departure.
“They want to cut the squad to a manageable size of between 30 and 32 players, down from over 40,” said an insider. “That’s why they are looking at letting some of these players leave. The seven players mentioned are currently on the list, with some potentially being loaned out while others could be sold.”
Squad management challenges: Why Pirates need to act fast
Another source highlighted the challenges of managing a large squad, especially with Pirates competing in multiple tournaments this season, including the CAF Champions League. “They need to manage the squad effectively and are working with other teams interested in these players. With time running out, it won’t be easy, but they are actively exploring options,” the source explained.
Gumede’s pending transfer to Pele Pele FC
In related news, goalkeeper Sphamandla Gumede is nearing a transfer to Pele Pele FC, a third-tier team. Gumede, who spent the previous season on loan at Orbit College in the Motsepe Foundation Championship. Has struggled for game time and did not return to the MFC team. With Sipho Chaine and Melusi Buthelezi ahead of him in the goalkeeper hierarchy at Pirates. Gumede’s prospects of breaking into the first team look slim.
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