Monnapule Saleng is eager to reignite his career after securing a season-long loan move back to his former club, Orbit College.
The 27-year-old winger expressed immense gratitude and relief about returning to familiar surroundings, particularly after a challenging period with Orlando Pirates.
Saleng initially joined the Buccaneers in 2021 from Free State Stars. His time with Pirates included a loan spell at Moroka Swallows, where he made 29 appearances, netting two goals and providing two assists.
Read: Nigeria Stun South Africa to Book Spot in Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Final
Over the following two seasons with Pirates, Saleng was a prolific presence, playing 57 times, scoring an impressive 20 goals, and contributing 16 assists.
That being said, his playing time significantly diminished last term, as he was restricted to just 13 appearances at the start of the campaign, despite still managing to bag five goals and one assist.
Orbit College, meanwhile, is celebrating its promotion to the Betway Premiership after a successful run in the promotion/relegation play-offs, which saw Cape Town City relegated. This means Saleng’s return coincides with the club’s maiden season in South Africa’s top flight.
Reflecting on his move, Saleng shared his sentiments with IOL, stating, “I am very happy to be back home, and I thank God for giving me the strength to find my way with Orbit. I am happy they got a promotion, and coming back home brings me a lot of joy.”
He openly admitted the difficulty of his decision to return, especially after a season marred by limited playing time. “It wasn’t an easy decision to come back, especially after having had a long season without playing,” Saleng explained.
“I kept on pushing myself even though I was not playing, and I kept supporting the team while waiting for my opportunity, but fortunately I got the opportunity to come back home.”
Saleng emphasized the importance of resilience during challenging times. “Looking at where you come from, that is where you keep pushing and not break easily.
There was motivation here and there, there were talks, but I pushed until I got the opportunity to come to Orbit and get the game time so that the next time I come back, I am fit.”
He also expressed confidence in Orbit College’s coaching staff and his new teammates, highlighting a smooth transition. “The coach has shown me how he wants us to play and it has made it easy for me to adjust and the players around me have been supportive of me.”
Looking ahead, Saleng is focused on letting his on-field performance do the talking, with a clear eye on future opportunities: “My performances will talk, I know AFCON is around the corner, but my performance will do the talking.”
Saleng’s return to Orbit College marks a fresh start for the talented winger as he aims to regain his form and contribute significantly to his former club’s inaugural season in the Betway Premiership.