Is Saleng’s Return to Orlando Pirates Finally Imminent? What Motaung’s Reveal Means for Chiefs and Pirates

Monipul Saleng’s situation has been complicated and shrouded in mystery for quite some time.

Contracted to Orlando Pirates until 2027, the talented winger has not featured for the club since December last year.

This absence coincided with reports of a salary dispute, which allegedly led to him being sidelined.

Saleng’s last appearance was during a CAF Champions League match against Al Ahly on December 7th, which ended in a goalless draw.

Since then, the player’s status has remained unclear, with no official statements from Pirates to clarify the matter.

The lack of communication only fueled rumors.

Some speculated that Saleng might be heading to archrivals Kaizer Chiefs, a transfer that would have sent shockwaves through South African football.

However, these rumors eventually died down due to a lack of concrete developments.

Meanwhile, the arrival of new Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Wadu has brought a glimmer of hope for Saleng’s future at the club.

Sources close to the team suggest that the new coach intends to give all players a fresh start, potentially including Saleng.

According to insiders, the coach plans to take the strongest possible squad to Spain for preseason training, and Saleng is reportedly very much part of that plan.

This could signal a revival for the winger’s career at Pirates, provided the salary issues can be resolved.

In the midst of this uncertainty, Kaizer Chiefs chairman Kaizer Motaung’s recent comments have added a new dimension to the story.

Motaung hinted at the possibility of Saleng’s arrival at Chiefs, congratulating the club on the prospect.

This public acknowledgment has reignited speculation that Chiefs might finally secure Saleng’s signature.

For Chiefs fans, this is tantalizing news, as Saleng’s talent and experience would be a valuable addition to the squad.

However, the situation remains fluid.

With Saleng still under contract with Pirates, any transfer would require negotiation and agreement between the clubs and the player.

Adding to the intrigue, other Pirates players such as Gilberto, Syphilo Bologna, and Goodman Mosil are also facing uncertain futures, with loans and contract talks ongoing.

This period of transition at Pirates highlights the broader challenges the club is navigating.

Gilberto’s initial loan back to his former club Pro Atletico was intended to give him more playing time, but his long-term role at Pirates remains unclear.

Similarly, Bologna may face another loan spell, and Mosil’s contract status is still unresolved.

These developments suggest that Pirates are in a rebuilding phase, trying to balance squad depth, finances, and player satisfaction.

For Saleng, the next few weeks could be decisive.

Whether he returns to Pirates under the new coach’s regime or makes a move to Chiefs, his career trajectory is at a crossroads.

Fans on both sides will be watching closely.

Pirates supporters hope for a resolution that benefits the club, while Chiefs fans dream of a signing that could bolster their title ambitions.

In conclusion, the Saleng saga is far from over.

The recent hints from Motaung and the new Pirates coach’s approach indicate that a final decision may be near.

This story embodies the complex interplay of contracts, club politics, player ambitions, and fan expectations that define modern football.

As the transfer window approaches, all eyes will remain on Saleng’s next move—one that could reshape the landscape of South African football.

Stay tuned for updates as this captivating chapter continues to unfold.