Orlando Pirates have officially commenced their squad overhaul for the upcoming season, announcing the departure of two established full-backs, Paseka Mako and academy product Thabiso Monyane.
The news, confirmed by the Buccaneers on Friday afternoon via their social media platforms, signifies a significant shift in the club’s defensive line-up.
This latest development brings the total number of confirmed exits from the Orlando Pirates camp to four. Earlier last week, the club also parted ways with midfielder Miguel Timm and long-serving captain Innocent Maela, who is reportedly set to transition into a non-playing role within the club.
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“The Club thanks them for their commitment and contribution to Orlando Pirates. Wishing them the very best in their next chapter,” read the official statement from the Buccaneers, expressing gratitude to the departing players.
Paseka Mako, a versatile defender who joined Pirates from Chippa United in 2018, will become a free agent at the end of June as his contract expires.
The 31-year-old saw a significant reduction in playing time under the now-departed coach Jose Riveiro during the recently concluded 2024/25 season, making a new challenge elsewhere a logical step. Throughout his Pirates tenure, Mako was a valuable asset, contributing to the team’s successes over several seasons.
Meanwhile, Thabiso Monyane, a product of the Buccaneers’ esteemed youth academy who was promoted to the first team in 2019, has also been released.
The 25-year-old right-back’s time at Pirates has been plagued by a series of injuries and inconsistent game time, hindering his ability to secure a regular starting berth. His contract also concludes on June 30, making him available on a free transfer.
Intriguingly, Monyane is now strongly linked with a potential move to arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs. The Glamour Boys, currently undergoing a rebuilding phase under their new coach Nasreddine Nabi, are actively seeking to strengthen their squad ahead of the challenging season ahead.
Monyane’s experience in the top flight and his potential versatility across the defensive line could make him an attractive prospect for Chiefs as they look to add depth and quality.