Daine Klate Weighs in on Orlando Pirates Star Saleng’s Future: Will He Return Next Season?

Thembinkosi Saleng’s situation at Orlando Pirates has become a topic of heated discussion among fans and analysts alike.

Contracted until 2027, Saleng’s future at the club remains uncertain amid reports of disagreements and his prolonged absence from the squad.

Daine Klate, a respected former Pirates player and coach, recently weighed in on this issue during a candid conversation.

He emphasized that the decision ultimately rests with Orlando Pirates, who must choose whether to keep Saleng and ensure he plays next season or sell him and reinvest the funds in new players.

“Saleng is contracted to Pirates until 2027,” Klate explained.

“It’s up to them to decide whether they want to use the player going forward or sell him.

If they keep him, he must be on the pitch playing.

If he leaves, then fine — sell him, take the money, and get other players who can fill those positions.”

Klate pointed out the serious consequences of relying on players like Bandile Shandu in the winger role, which is not his natural position.

“We can’t keep relying on a player like Shandu to play on the wing,” he said.

“Pirates need wingers who can take on players, cut inside, and score goals — qualities Saleng possesses.”

Reflecting on his own experiences, Klate drew parallels between Saleng’s current situation and past challenges faced by Pirates players.

He mentioned how even successful players who won playoffs encountered problems behind the scenes, hinting that Saleng’s issues might stem from off-field influences.

“I don’t know who is advising Saleng or what he’s being told,” Klate said.

“Sometimes players get bad advice or are influenced by people who don’t have their best interests at heart.

As a coach, I’ve seen players come in with one mindset but leave with doubts planted by others.

It’s unfortunate because it can hinder their progress.”

Klate expressed hope that Saleng and Orlando Pirates can find a way to resolve their differences.

“If it’s a money issue, there’s a way to sort it out.

If it’s a family issue, there’s a way to sort it out.

Whatever the problem is, there’s always a solution,” he said.

However, Klate also criticized both parties for the breakdown in communication and professionalism.

“Saleng signed a binding contract, and even if he’s unhappy, he should honor it and focus on playing.

The club should also try to meet him halfway or explain their position clearly,” he argued.

He lamented the fact that the situation was allowed to drag on, forcing Pirates to continue without one of their key wingers for much of the season.

“The club and Saleng both missed an opportunity to come to a common ground.

The team could have benefited greatly from having him on the pitch,” Klate noted.

Klate’s frustration was evident as he questioned why Pirates failed to resolve the issue or bring in suitable replacements.

“They let go of players like Chilberto and Abuadisa but didn’t fix the Saleng situation.

Instead, they played Shandu as a winger, which isn’t his position.

It’s setting him up for failure,” he said.

He stressed the importance of recruiting wingers with the right profile — skillful, creative, quick, and capable of scoring and assisting goals.

“Pirates need wingers like Saleng or even like Plates, who can beat defenders, cut inside, and create chances.

Shandu is a great fullback but not a winger,” Klate added.

As for the future, Klate urged clarity from the club.

“If Saleng is staying, he must play.

We can’t have him sitting on the bench or missing matchday squads.

If the issue isn’t fixed, then sell the player,” he said firmly.

Klate also expressed his hope that if Saleng leaves, it should be to a club outside South Africa.

“Pirates don’t usually sell players, but Saleng is valuable.

If he’s going, I don’t want him to sign for another local team.

He should move abroad,” he concluded.

In summary, Daine Klate’s insights highlight the complexity of Saleng’s situation at Orlando Pirates.

His call for professionalism, communication, and decisive action reflects the frustrations of many supporters who want to see the talented winger back on the pitch or a clear resolution to the saga.

Whether Pirates and Saleng can find common ground remains to be seen, but Klate’s perspective offers a roadmap for how the club might move forward.