Recovery, Transfers, and Rising Stars: Latest Updates from Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns

Orlando Pirates’ strength and conditioning coach, Heli Goldich, recently underwent leg surgery, a setback that has left fans and the club hoping for a speedy recovery.

Goldich, a vital part of the Pirates’ technical team, took to social media to share his positive spirit despite the injury, expressing gratitude and determination to come back stronger.

His role in enhancing players’ fitness, agility, and injury prevention is crucial, and his temporary absence has prompted the club to bring in support.

To fill the gap, Pirates have enlisted Ulie Miles from Cape Town City, who previously served as head of sports science there.

Miles has already started overseeing fitness sessions, ensuring the team stays in optimal shape as they prepare for the new season.

This transition reflects the club’s proactive approach to maintaining high performance standards despite unforeseen challenges.

Meanwhile, Pirates are gearing up for their upcoming match against Bolton, with the squad set to travel soon.

The team’s preparation is underpinned by a strong technical staff, including assistant coaches and fitness experts, all working together to keep the squad competitive.

Shifting focus to player movements, Bradley Grobler, a veteran striker aged 37, has completed a new deal with Sekhukhune United.

Grobler’s career has been remarkable, especially his long tenure at SuperSport United since 2013, where he scored an impressive 115 goals.

Despite SuperSport United’s recent relegation and sale of their PSL status, Grobler’s new short-term contract with Sekhukhune offers him a fresh chapter, with an option to extend for another year depending on his performance.

Grobler’s signing is significant for Sekhukhune United as they bolster their attacking options ahead of the new campaign.

His experience and goal-scoring prowess will be invaluable to the club’s ambitions in the top flight.

In other player news, Malibongwe Khoza, the 21-year-old center back from Mamelodi Sundowns’ academy, is quickly making a name for himself.

Having made 30 appearances across all competitions and even featuring in the FIFA Club World Cup, Khoza is embracing the challenge of top-level football with enthusiasm.

He acknowledges the high standards at Sundowns and expresses pride in his progress, crediting the academy’s legacy for inspiring young players.

Khoza’s development highlights the success of Sundowns’ youth system, which has produced several talents capable of stepping into the senior team.

His performances have sparked discussions about the best center-back pairings for Sundowns, with options including Khoza himself alongside veteran defenders like Kgaogelo Kana, Ricardo Nascimento (known as “Shali”), and others such as Libusa and Kanu Cupido.

The defensive lineup remains a topic of debate among fans and analysts, especially after player loans and returns have reshuffled the squad.

Coach Rhulani Mokwena faces decisions that could shape Sundowns’ defensive solidity in the season ahead.

These updates also come amid Sundowns’ continued efforts to strengthen their squad, as previously reported with their pursuit of a highly rated winger to enhance attacking depth.

Together with the emergence of academy graduates like Khoza, Sundowns are positioning themselves for sustained success domestically and continentally.

To summarize, Orlando Pirates are managing a crucial recovery phase for their strength and conditioning coach while maintaining fitness standards with new support staff.

Bradley Grobler’s move to Sekhukhune United marks a fresh start for the seasoned striker, and Malibongwe Khoza’s rise at Sundowns signals a bright future for the club’s defense.

As the PSL season approaches, these stories reflect the dynamic nature of South African football — where resilience, experience, and youth converge to create compelling narratives.

Fans can look forward to exciting performances and strategic battles on the pitch as teams finalize their squads and prepare to compete.

Stay tuned for further updates as the season unfolds, with more insights into player performances, tactical shifts, and the ongoing evolution of the PSL landscape.