Orlando Pirates Urged to Learn from Ndlondlo Mistake to Maximise Tshepo Mashiloane’s Potential

Orlando Pirates have been issued a critical piece of advice regarding the club’s latest signing, Tshepo Mashiloane, as they prepare to integrate the talented right-back into their squad ahead of the 2025/26 season.

Mashiloane, who joins the Soweto giants from Motsepe Foundation Championship outfit Baroka FC, has reportedly signed a five-year deal with the Buccaneers. While his arrival is being met with optimism, his former coach, Dan Malesela, has offered pointed guidance to ensure that the young star reaches his full potential at the club.

Speaking to KickOff.com, Malesela, a former Pirates defender himself, cautioned the club against mishandling the development of Mashiloane—drawing comparisons to how Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo’s role has evolved since joining the Buccaneers.

“Mashiloane is extraordinary. He is a very special and talented right-back,” Malesela said. “While he is not yet a complete player—there are a few aspects he needs to work on—he is solid in defence and outstanding going forward. He scored goals for us and created numerous chances.”

Malesela emphasised that players from the lower leagues need time to adjust and develop, and that understanding their natural strengths is crucial to unlocking their potential. He highlighted Mashiloane’s technical ability, attacking instinct, and defensive discipline as core strengths that need to be nurtured rather than altered.

“There are specific things Mashiloane can learn from the experienced players at Pirates. Although he is strong, gifted, and technically skilled, he still has room to grow,” he added. “It’s vital that coaches and clubs ask those who’ve worked closely with these players for input.”

Drawing from recent experience, Malesela pointed to Ndlondlo’s current role at Pirates as a cautionary tale. The versatile midfielder has seen his influence wane, which Malesela attributes to being played out of position.

“Ndlondlo should not be playing as an eight or six. He needs to be utilised as a 10, where he can create and score goals. That’s where he thrived at first, and it’s puzzling why that changed,” he said. “It saddens me to see players I’ve worked with fall off the radar due to tactical misjudgments. I hope Tshepo doesn’t have to go through that.”

Malesela also mentioned that while Mashiloane has the potential to play as a centre-back in the future, his current and most effective position is right-back.

As Orlando Pirates continue to strengthen their squad and develop young talent, the club’s technical team has been urged to take Malesela’s advice seriously. Properly managing Mashiloane’s development could not only benefit the player but also add a dynamic edge to the Buccaneers’ defence and attack.

With fans eager to see the new recruit in action, all eyes will be on the coaching staff to ensure that this promising defender is given the platform to shine—without repeating past mistakes.