Katlego Otladisa Included in Orlando Pirates Squad Amid Exit Speculation

In a twist few saw coming, Katlego Otladisa has been named in Orlando Pirates’ official 34-man squad for the 2025/26 season, signaling that the winger may have earned an unexpected lifeline at the club.

Otladisa, who spent last season on loan at Sekhukhune United, was widely believed to be on his way out of Mayfair. Rumours of a permanent exit had been circulating for months, especially with the arrival of new head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou and a growing list of attacking talent at the Soweto giants. But his inclusion on the squad list, published on the club’s official website, suggests he’ll get a fresh start under the new technical leadership.

The 27-year-old, affectionately known as ‘Dox’, will now look to make the most of what could be a final opportunity to prove himself at one of the country’s most demanding clubs. Having shown flashes of brilliance earlier in his career, Otladisa has yet to consistently deliver at the top level. His loan spell at Sekhukhune offered valuable game time, but it wasn’t enough to guarantee a return to prominence—until now.

Still, the challenge ahead is significant. Pirates boast an attacking department filled with pace, creativity, and depth. Rising star Relebohile Mofokeng is expected to play a major role once again, while new additions like Oswin Appollis and Tshepang Moremi bring added quality and direct competition to Otladisa’s position. With such a stacked frontline, earning minutes will require more than potential—it’ll take standout performances and tactical adaptability.

Otladisa’s surprise inclusion is a reminder of the ever-evolving dynamics within South African football, where form, fit, and opportunity can shift rapidly. Whether he can seize the moment and make a lasting impact remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Katlego Otladisa is not out of the picture just yet.

As Orlando Pirates ramp up their pre-season preparations, all eyes will be on how the winger integrates into Ouaddou’s system and whether he can carve out a meaningful role in a squad brimming with attacking firepower.