The Untold Story Behind Orlando Pirates Star Saleng’s Absence and Simo Dladla’s Departure from Durban City

For months, fans of Orlando Pirates have been left puzzled by the mysterious absence of one of their brightest stars, Saleng.

Last seen on the pitch in December against Al Ahly, Saleng has since been conspicuously missing from matchday squads despite regularly training with the team.

Questions have swirled about his future at Pirates—whether he will be sold, sidelined indefinitely, or eventually reinstated.

Meanwhile, in another development within South African football, coach Simo Dladla has parted ways with newly promoted Durban City, ending a promising chapter for the club.

This article delves into the latest revelations about Saleng’s situation and the circumstances surrounding Dladla’s exit.

Saleng’s contract saga has been a source of speculation for some time.

Initially signed on a deal set to expire this month, the club exercised a two-year extension option, meaning Saleng remains officially tied to Orlando Pirates for the next two seasons.

Yet, despite this contractual security, his absence from competitive matches raises serious questions about his role in the squad moving forward.

The uncertainty around Saleng is compounded by conflicting narratives.

Some blame the player for off-field issues or attitude problems, while others point fingers at the club’s management for mishandling the situation.

Fans and pundits alike have been eager for clarity, and it appears that clarity is finally on the horizon.

A new documentary focusing on Orlando Pirates, scheduled to air on July 27, promises to shed light on the mystery surrounding Saleng’s sidelining.

Trailers from the documentary hint that the player’s story will be addressed directly, potentially revealing the reasons behind his prolonged absence.

The film is expected to feature interviews with club officials, coaches, and possibly Saleng himself, offering a comprehensive look at the internal dynamics that led to this unusual scenario.

One particularly telling moment captured in the documentary’s preview shows a tense exchange involving Saleng and a coach.

When Saleng attempts to speak, the coach questions his well-being and then abruptly tells him to leave.

This brief interaction suggests deeper issues behind the scenes, possibly involving discipline or disagreements that have impacted Saleng’s standing at the club.

The anticipation surrounding the documentary reflects the broader desire among Pirates supporters for transparency and truth.

Whether the revelations will vindicate the player, expose management missteps, or reveal a more complex reality remains to be seen.

What is clear is that the club and its fans are eager to move past the speculation and understand the facts.

Turning to Durban City, the news is less about mystery and more about an unfortunate parting of ways.

Coach Simo Dladla, who led the newly promoted club to top-flight status, will not continue with them into the next season.

His contract expired at the end of June and, despite hopes he would remain, the club and coach could not agree on terms for renewal.

Reports indicate that Durban City was unable to meet Dladla’s demands, leading to a mutual parting.

This development is a setback for the club, which had hoped to maintain continuity after achieving promotion under his leadership.

Dladla’s departure leaves a significant gap in the coaching staff as the team prepares for its Premier Division campaign.

In response, Durban City has reportedly approached Owen Dakama, known for his successful battle against relegation with Mamelodi Sundowns, as a potential replacement.

The club is currently evaluating options to secure a coach capable of guiding them through the challenges of top-tier competition.

For Dladla, the end of his tenure at Durban City is bittersweet.

He was instrumental in their rise and had earned respect for his tactical nous and leadership.

Observers hope he will find new opportunities soon, as his coaching credentials and recent success make him a valuable asset for other clubs.

In summary, South African football is witnessing significant shifts.

Orlando Pirates’ Saleng saga is nearing a pivotal moment with the upcoming documentary promising answers to lingering questions.

Meanwhile, Durban City faces a new chapter as they search for a coach to replace Simo Dladla, who leaves behind a legacy of achievement.

Fans and stakeholders await these developments with keen interest, recognizing that both stories reflect the complexities and challenges inherent in professional football.

Transparency, communication, and strategic decisions will be key to resolving these situations positively for the players, coaches, and clubs involved.