Questions around Sipho Mbule’s recent absence from the Orlando Pirates squad have been clarified, with the midfielder currently working his way back from a minor injury.
Mbule’s absence had raised eyebrows among supporters after the 27-year-old appeared to be edging closer to regular involvement again. The creative midfielder had previously been spotted in the stands alongside players not included in the matchday squad before eventually making his return to action against Marumo Gallants.
With Pirates navigating a demanding schedule — including a clash against Mamelodi Sundowns — many fans expected the technically gifted midfielder, nicknamed “Master Chef”, to feature prominently. However, Mbule remained an unused substitute in the Buccaneers’ 2-1 defeat to Sundowns.
His lack of minutes came as a surprise, particularly as Pirates were without midfielders Thalente Mbatha and Sihle Nduli at the time.
Mbule’s subsequent absence from the matchday squad for the Soweto derby against Kaizer Chiefs further fuelled speculation. The issue, however, largely flew under the radar after Pirates delivered a commanding performance to claim a 3-0 victory over their arch-rivals.
According to Mbule’s agent, Mike Makaab, the situation is straightforward and purely linked to the player’s recovery process.
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“Sipho is recovering from a small injury, he’s back at training, he is working with a fitness trainer and doing his rehab,” Makaab explained, as quoted by Soccer Laduma.
Makaab added that similar concerns had previously surfaced when Mbatha was missing from Pirates squads, revealing that the midfielder had also been dealing with an injury before returning in the derby — where he was eventually forced off with his knee strapped.
With Mbule now back in training and progressing through rehabilitation, Pirates supporters will hope the creative midfielder can soon return to full fitness and play a role in the Buccaneers’ push during the closing stages of the season.