Orlando Pirates Legend Backs Loan Move for Monnapule Saleng Amid Orbit College Link

A respected Orlando Pirates legend has weighed in on the swirling speculation surrounding the future of Monnapule Saleng, as talk of a potential loan move to Orbit College FC gathers pace.

Saleng, 26, is reportedly on the verge of a season-long loan return to Orbit College, the club where his professional journey began before rising through the ranks at Free State Stars and eventually joining the Buccaneers. According to various reports, the speedy winger is currently unhappy at Pirates and is seeking a fresh start to revive his form and confidence.

Adding his voice to the growing conversation, former Pirates star-turned-coach Mandla Zwane believes a loan move to Orbit College could be the ideal solution for Saleng at this point in his career.

“It could be a good move for the boy. It might help to clear his mind. Being in a familiar surrounding like Orbit might do him good,” Zwane told KickOff.com. “It is gonna be good for his career. What he is currently going through can happen to any player. All we want to see is Saleng on the field of play.”

Saleng enjoyed a standout 2022/23 season with Pirates, establishing himself as one of the most feared attackers in the DStv Premiership. However, a dip in form and limited opportunities have led to frustration and uncertainty surrounding his future at the club.

Zwane, who also played for SuperSport United during his career, insists the move should be seen as progression rather than a step backwards, especially with Orbit College now part of the top flight.

“A loan move will resuscitate his career. It’s more of a progression and not a regression since he will still be in the Premier Soccer League. Orbit is in the Premiership. Where he is right now, he might have lost the rhythm, so a loan move would be good for the player,” he added.

Importantly, Zwane sees the potential loan not as the end of Saleng’s chapter at Pirates, but as a temporary detour aimed at revitalising his contribution to the Soweto giants.

“The fact that Pirates might be considering loaning the blistering winger out means there is still a potential for him to return to the club, where he has really stamped his mark. A short loan stint might help him regain his rhythm so that he can help Orlando Pirates going forward.”

With the 2025/26 season fast approaching, all eyes will be on how the situation unfolds. For Saleng, a return to his roots could be the lifeline he needs to reignite the spark that once made him one of the most exciting prospects in South African football.