Orlando Pirates to Reward Mbokazi with a Contract / Richards Bay FIFA Ban Lifted

It has been a whirlwind week in South African football, with developments both on and off the pitch sending shockwaves through the local game.

Among the biggest headlines is the news that Orlando Pirates are set to offer a professional contract to emerging talent Thabiso Mbokazi, following his recent impressive performances.

At the same time, Richards Bay FC have been granted a significant lifeline as their FIFA-imposed transfer ban has officially been lifted, allowing the club to plan for the future with more flexibility.

Thabiso Mbokazi has been one of the standout performers in recent weeks, rising rapidly through the ranks and catching the attention of the Orlando Pirates technical team.

The young midfielder, who initially joined the Soweto giants’ reserve side, has turned heads with his composure, tactical awareness, and ability to read the game well beyond his years.

After being called up to train with the senior team, Mbokazi made a strong impression during a series of friendlies and intra-squad games, prompting coaches to take serious note of his potential.

Sources close to the club have revealed that Pirates are preparing to offer Mbokazi his first senior professional contract, a move that could mark the beginning of a promising career at one of the biggest clubs on the continent.

The technical team, led by coach Jose Riveiro, is believed to have been particularly impressed with the youngster’s maturity and his versatility in midfield.

Mbokazi has been described by insiders as a disciplined and coachable player, qualities that fit well with the club’s philosophy and long-term plans.

Should the contract go through as expected, Mbokazi will join the list of homegrown talents who have successfully transitioned from the Pirates development structure into the first team.

The move is also seen as a clear statement of intent from Orlando Pirates to invest in youth and local talent, especially at a time when the club is looking to refresh and rejuvenate its squad with dynamic, hungry players.

The exact terms of the deal are yet to be officially confirmed, but it is believed that the contract will run for three years with the option to extend, based on performance reviews.

Mbokazi’s story is one that many young South Africans can relate to—a player who worked his way up through hard work and persistence, now on the verge of living his dream.

He has reportedly remained humble through the attention and continues to focus on improving each day.

His inclusion in upcoming matchday squads could come as early as next month, depending on how he continues to perform in training.

Fans have already begun to buzz about the prospect of seeing fresh blood in the midfield, particularly as the team aims to close the gap at the top of the PSL table.

While Pirates celebrate the rise of new talent, another major story is unfolding on the other end of the league—Richards Bay FC have officially had their FIFA transfer ban lifted.

The KwaZulu-Natal-based side had been restricted from registering new players due to outstanding payments related to a contractual dispute with a former player.

The ban had significantly hindered their ability to reinforce the squad during the transfer window, causing major concern among supporters as the team struggled with form and squad depth.

However, in a crucial turning point for the club, Richards Bay management has reportedly settled the financial obligations required by FIFA, leading to the reversal of the ban.

This development comes at a pivotal moment, with the team currently embroiled in a relegation battle and desperate for reinforcements in key positions.

With the transfer window now accessible again, the club has already begun shortlisting potential signings to help bolster the squad ahead of the final stretch of the season.

Club officials have confirmed that discussions are already underway with multiple free agents and out-of-contract players.

The focus will likely be on strengthening the defensive unit and adding creativity in midfield, two areas that have been flagged as weak points throughout the campaign.

The coaching staff, led by Coach Vusumuzi Vilakazi, has welcomed the decision with relief and optimism, noting that the team now has a fighting chance to remain in the top division.

The lifting of the ban also sends a broader message about financial accountability and the importance of clubs fulfilling contractual obligations.

Richards Bay’s experience has become a cautionary tale in the PSL, reminding clubs of the serious consequences that can follow when players are not paid in full.

It has also sparked conversations within league circles about better financial oversight, improved support for clubs in legal disputes, and more robust contract enforcement measures to avoid similar situations in the future.

As for the players already at Richards Bay, the news has brought a renewed sense of hope and motivation.

The prospect of new teammates arriving to strengthen the squad has lifted morale at training sessions, and the fanbase is cautiously optimistic about a turnaround.

With the ban lifted and reinforcements incoming, Richards Bay will now be aiming to claw their way out of the relegation zone and secure their status in the PSL for another season.

This dual development—the rise of a young star at Orlando Pirates and the revival of transfer freedom at Richards Bay—illustrates the ever-changing dynamics of South African football.

While some clubs are building for the future with homegrown talent, others are fighting to stay alive and rebuild trust both on and off the pitch.

What remains constant is the passion, drama, and unpredictability that make the PSL one of the most exciting football leagues in Africa.

As both stories continue to unfold, fans will be watching closely, not just for results on the pitch, but for the broader narratives that shape the beautiful game.