Orlando Pirates could be set for an unlikely boost as the Monnapule Saleng saga enters into a new chapter.
The Saleng-Pirates saga has dominated most of the football headlines at the turn of the year but could be ending.
Saleng has not played for Pirates in 2025
There have been many rumours about Saleng’s situation with Pirates, with the club and his management both releasing statements. Initial rumours were that the winger was denied a lucrative opportunity abroad a couple of years back. It was also recently claimed that Egyptian giants Al Ahly had agreed a deal to sign him from the Buccaneers. That deal hitting a snag saw him disgruntled and missing training.
Just recently Saleng returned to action for the first time in 2025, having being sidelined by Pirates. His first bit of football came courtesy of Bafana Bafana, an impressive 90 minute outing against Egypt. This in a 1-1 draw in the African Nations Championship qualifiers first leg. However, the player did not make the squad for the second leg in Egypt the next weekend.
Played for Bafana recently
That prompted suggestions that Pirates had recalled Saleng after he impressed for Bafana Bafana. But that was not the case as we reported earlier that he did not show up to the team camp in Johannesburg and was subsequently released. We also reported that the winger may have already played his last game for the Buccaneers.
Back training with the Buccaneers?
But now according to the latest team footage from the Pirates Youtube channel Saleng seems to be back! The left-footed wizard was captured in a team meeting with the rest of his teammates, before they started going through their routine. The 27-year-old was seen hard at work and it remains to be seen if he is in contention for a return or not. Watch the video below.
Positive news for the club, player and fans?
Pirates fans is this a positive sign at least, seeing that Saleng is back training with his teammates? Let us know by clicking on the comment tab. Or by emailing [email protected] or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. You can also follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest news.
