Bandile Shandu’s Orlando Pirates Future Clarified Amid Exit Rumours

Amid growing speculation over a potential midfield clear-out at Orlando Pirates, Bandile Shandu’s agent has firmly stated that the player will remain with the Buccaneers for the upcoming season. Despite reports suggesting that Pirates may release players to create room for new signings, Shandu is not on the chopping block—at least for now.

Soccer Laduma recently reported that Shandu’s future was uncertain as the Soweto giants prepare for a busy transfer window. However, his agent, Mike Makaab, has moved quickly to shut down the exit rumours.

“He is staying at Pirates,” Makaab told the Siya crew. “He is an Orlando Pirates player, so there is nothing for us to discuss at the moment concerning his future. He is staying at Orlando Pirates.”

The former Maritzburg United midfielder is entering the final year of his contract, which is believed to run until June 2026. Having joined Pirates ahead of the 2021/22 season, Shandu enjoyed a strong debut campaign, making several league appearances and finding the back of the net.

While his involvement dipped due to injuries in recent seasons, Shandu still managed to make meaningful contributions in the Betway Premiership, scoring crucial goals when called upon.

However, an insider at Pirates has offered a slightly different take on the situation. The source pointed out that the club is set for a major squad overhaul under new head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. With close to 10 new signings expected, Pirates may still need to offload several players to balance the squad size.

“Yes, apparently his contract is believed to only run out in June 2026. That means he still has a year left at Pirates, but he is one of the players that the club could release to make space for new arrivals,” the insider explained.

With Pirates yet to issue an official statement on Shandu’s status, the midfielder’s immediate future remains a topic of debate among fans and analysts. The next few weeks could bring more clarity, especially as Pirates continue to make moves in the transfer market.

For now, Shandu remains part of the Buccaneers’ plans as they prepare for the 2025/26 PSL season, but with the transfer window in full swing, anything could still happen.