Orlando Pirates have confirmed a batch of incoming and outgoing player moves following their Betway Premiership title success. The club announced the signings of Mthetheleli Mthiyane from Stellenbosch FC, Sbangani Zulu from Richards Bay, and Bohale Ngwato and Ghampani Lungu, both arriving from Siwelele. As part of the Mthiyane deal, defender Thabiso Lebitso has moved in the opposite direction to join Stellenbosch FC in a swap arrangement. The club said more details about the new arrivals will be shared later.
At the same time, Orlando Pirates confirmed that five players will leave the club when their contracts expire at the end of the 2025/26 season. The departing players are Bandile Shandu, Sipho Mbule, Tshegofatso Mabasa, Karim Kimvuidi and Deivi Miguel Vieira, also known as Gilberto. The club thanked each player for their contribution to the Buccaneers during their time at Orlando Pirates and wished them well in the next stage of their careers.
The announcement comes after weeks of rumours and media speculation surrounding potential squad changes at the Johannesburg-based club. With the league title already secured, the focus has now shifted to rebuilding and adjusting the squad ahead of the next campaign. The confirmed arrivals are expected to add depth and competition in key areas, while the departures mark the end of an important chapter for several first-team players.
Mthiyane’s move stands out as the only confirmed swap deal in the announcement, highlighting a direct player exchange between Orlando Pirates and Stellenbosch FC. The club did not provide financial details or contract lengths for any of the new signings, saying only that more information would follow in due course. The group of new players also reflects a continued effort by Orlando Pirates to strengthen across multiple positions after a successful season.
The exits of Shandu, Mbule, Mabasa, Kimvuidi and Gilberto bring an end to their respective spells at the club. Each player had different roles and contributions during the campaign, and their departures were confirmed as part of the natural conclusion of their contracts. Orlando Pirates paid tribute to their service and formally acknowledged their impact on the club’s recent journey.
The latest changes signal the start of another transitional period for the champions as they prepare for the new season. With signings already made and several players now moving on, Orlando Pirates are shaping a refreshed squad while maintaining the momentum of their title-winning campaign.
