The last three seasons have seen numerous Orlando Pirates stars catch the eye of clubs abroad while others fell off.
One of the first players that was linked with a move abroad from the current club was winger Monnapule Saleng
Saleng was key for Pirates in 2022/23
Saleng had his breakthrough season with Pirates two seasons ago, scoring 15 goals and registering nine assists in all competitions. That form also saw him win two trophies with the club, the MTN8 and the Nedbank Cup. He also became a key part of Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos’ side.
The 2023/24 season turned out to be one to forget for Saleng, however, as he quickly fell out of favour. His lack of form saw him replace by coach Jose Riveiro, the same mentor who saw the potential in him. The emergence of young Relebohile Mofokeng also didn’t help his cause. In both the previous transfer windows, he would subsequently be linked with an exit from Pirates.
It was believed Pirates were ready to send Saleng out on loan. But after going to the pre-season tour in Spain, his fortunes seemed to change. He has started the current season as a regular and has also been among the goals.
Liege interested in signing him?
As it stands Saleng has scored four goals in six matches in all competitions. That form has, unsurprisingly seen him linked with a move away from Pirates again. According to Soccer-Laduma Belgian topflight side Standard Liege.
“It’s not like the interest in Saleng died off. It’s just that last season he was not playing that much so it was hard for the teams interested in him to monitor his progress but they were checking what was going on. Now since he is back in the thick of things the interest has arise again. It’s Standard Liege that have shown interest. Actually last season they were also interested in Mohau Nkota while Monaco SC were interested in Saleng. So now it’s believed that the Standard Liege scouts are looking at Saleng since Nkota has not been playing much since his promotion,” said the source.
Buccaneers, would you be willing to let him go?
Liege being interested in Saleng represents an incredible turnaround in his Pirates career. Buccaneers, would you give him your blessing to leave for a club abroad? Feel free to leave your thoughts and feelings in the comments below.
