Former Orlando Pirates forward Lebohang Mokoena offers to help Monnapule Saleng as he believes the winger is receiving poor advice – ‘The influence around him is not so good’
Ex-Bucs winger reaches out to Pirates star but gets no response, insisting the 26-year-old must meet with the team to resolve the issue.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Social media has been buzzing in recent weeks with speculation that Monnapule Saleng is unhappy with his treatment at Orlando Pirates and reports suggest that the winger is frustrated over unfulfilled contractual agreements, which has led to his absence from the squad.
The Bafana Bafana international last featured for the Buccaneers in December during their Caf Champions League clash against Al Ahly, his prolonged absence has raised concerns, especially given his contributions to the team in previous seasons and the current one.
Bucs legend Lebohang Mokoena has tried to reach out to Saleng but has not received any acknowledgment from the player and Mokoena believes the situation could be resolved if he engages in open discussions with the club.
The winger’s return to action could prove crucial for Pirates as they push for silverware on multiple fronts.
WHAT MOKOENA SAID.
“Till today, I’ve been trying to get hold of him with the phone (he has not answered or got back to me). I went through some of his socials to try and drop him a message and say: ‘Hey boy, give me a call, let’s talk’ because I’m also getting messages asking me about the boy,” Mokoena said on SoccerBeat YouTube Channel.
“The last time I checked on one of his Facebook (posts), he was at some farm, running around chickens and cows. And I’m looking at the people around him (in the picture) and these people are not even football people. What are they telling him?
“That’s what I’m saying, the influence around him is not so good, man. Because there’s always advisers. We understand the issue, you might not have got the opportunity to get a team you were looking for – either going overseas, making more money or you’re not happy with your salary.
“Whatever it is, the advice (from legends) is clear and sound, go sit down with the team and explain your situation. If the team don’t get it right, the only answer is to get back into the field,” ‘Cheese Boy’ added.
THE BIGGER PICTURE.
Jose Riveiro and his squad are still in the hunt for four major trophies this season, including the league, Caf Champions League, Nedbank Cup, and MTN8.
Saleng has been an important figure in Pirates’ attacking setup, scoring two goals in four games and finding the net in the MTN8 final against Stellenbosch.
With fixtures coming thick and fast, the Buccaneers could benefit from having a player of his caliber back in the team.
His pace and creativity on the wing add another dimension to the Buccaneers’ attack, making his return even more urgent.
Mokoena’s concerns highlight the importance of experienced mentorship in guiding young players through contract disputes.
If the 26-year-old returns soon, it will be a huge boost for Bucs in their title ambitions.
