Monnapule Saleng, Orlando Pirates’ former attack poster boy, might be in for a dramatic return to where it all started — Orbit College. Nothing has been cast in stone yet, but sources indicate that the Buccaneers are open to loaning the winger back to his old club if Orbit achieves promotion to the DStv Premiership.
Back to His Roots Years before the period when he went on to set the DStv Premiership alight and started receiving call-ups to Bafana Bafana duty, Saleng was a raw but explosive talent at Orbit College. That’s where, in the SAFA Second Division, he started cutting his teeth in the beautiful game.
His performances later attracted the attention of scouts, and he moved to Free State Stars in 2019. He later finished as the 2020-21 National First Division top scorer with 13 strikes from 29 outings — an achievement that saw him move to Orlando Pirates.
Saleng’s 2022/23 campaign was nothing short of sensational — 11 goals in 22 league matches, several Man of the Match awards, and a crowd favourite. Flash-forward to 2024/25, and the story has been different.
He played just 17 games this season, scoring a measly 3 goals and providing only one assist. Form and competition for spots were some of it, but there is more to it than that.
Off-field personal problems were said to have led to his declining displays and absence. His parents were also said to have been involved in a previous salary dispute with Pirates, which was believed to have soured them on the way their son was being handled at the club. While those matters appeared to have been ironed out, they left a lingering shadow over his Mayfair stay.
The commotion saw speculation regarding Saleng’s future, with reports of him handing in a transfer request and interest from other clubs, both local and abroad. Pirates have thus far stood firm, rejecting offers and announcing once again that they still view the winger as part of their long-term plans.
Orbit College: A Strategic Loan Destination? Here’s the twist in the story. Pirates are allegedly happy to lend Saleng to Orbit College — if the North West-based team is promoted to the top flight. Orbit, having recently gained promotion to the Motsepe Foundation Championship, are looking for a place in the DStv Premiership and would be in a position to take advantage of Saleng’s top-flight experience. For Saleng, a move back to his old club would also represent a fresh start much needed — familiar players, an almost guaranteed starting position, and an opportunity to rediscover his rhythm and confidence away from Orlando Stadium’s glare and pressure. For Pirates, it’s a smart decision: retain the player on the books, let him regain his rhythm, and maybe have him come back sharper and hungrier.
