Former Orlando Pirates captain blasts Kaizer Chiefs for not signing ex-Mamelodi Sundowns star Sipho Mbule - 'Known for having tricky players like Doctor Khumalo'

Baroka FC coach Dan Malesela has blasted Kaizer Chiefs for dragging their feet and eventually missing a chance to sign Sipho Mbule.

After massive speculation around the mercurial midfielder, he finally signed for Pirates. Malesela argues that it is Amakhosi who needed Mbule more than Pirates.

"It's a great signing for Pirates. I was surprised because Chiefs dropped the ball on this one. They missed out big time, as they don't have a player like that at the moment," Malesela told KickOff.

"And they really need someone like him. Chiefs have always been known for having tricky players like Doctor Khumalo, but currently, they lack someone as creative as Sipho Mbule," he added.

To Malesela, the acquisition of the former Mamelodi Sundowns player is a massive achievement despite alleged off-pitch issues that have been following the midfielder.

"I think it's a major win for Pirates. They just need to get him to toe the line. There are many players in our league who might have similar issues, but Mbule stands out because he is a true talent. These concerns can be addressed," the former Sundowns and Pirates captain added.

"I'm worried about how quickly we judge players when they face challenges rather than trying to help them. Pirates merchandise," he continued.

"I know for a fact what this boy can do; I had the chance to watch him closely with the Naledi FC team during the 2022 DStv Compact Cup. Spending time watching him train revealed just how amazing his skills are."

Before he was unveiled by Pirates as their new signing, Mbule had been strongly linked with and offered to Chiefs, something that even his agent, Mike Makaab, confirmed.

Finally, the race was won by the Sea Robbers, who unveiled him a few days ago as their first signing ahead of next season.

New Pirates' head coach, Abdeslam Ouaddou, is understood to be an admirer of Mbule, and since he has him now, how he will turn him into a top star is something that the club's supporters are waiting to see.

During his time at both Sundowns and Sekhukhune United, Mbule was accused of off-pitch issues that led to the termination of his contract.

Many agree he is a top-talented player, and how he will use the chance offered by Pirates to resuscitate his career is a question he alone can answer.