Former Orlando Pirates coach turned agent questions Bucs' squad depth to challenge on multiple fronts - 'They still need a couple of transfer windows to bolster the entire squad'

Mamelodi Sundowns convincingly defeated Orlando Pirates 4-1 at Loftus Versfeld, extending their lead at the top of the table to nine points.

Masandawana remain unbeaten in the league under Miguel Cardoso and have been in exceptional scoring form.

Their dominant performance over the weekend reinforced their status as the top team in South African football.

Former Pirates coach-turned-player agent, Mike Makaab, weighed in on the Buccaneers' squad depth and what they need to do to close the gap on Sundowns.

He shared his insights during an interview with Gagasi FM.

“If Pirates win their game in hand, we talk about six points. Pirates have got to play Sundowns at the Orlando Stadium, and it’s happening sooner rather than later," said Makaab on Gagasi FM. "I believe that that could be a very, very vital game for both teams. If Sundowns do a double, it’s gonna be very difficult for Pirates to claw back, let’s call it nine points. Okay. Six points is definitely doable.

“My only concern is, does Orlando Pirates have the depth in their squad to be challenging on so many fronts? Time will tell. I think they still need a couple of transfer windows to bolster the entire squad.

“But you know, for those who start complaining about their coach, you should be very disappointed in yourselves because, at the end of the day, this man has taken a team that was struggling to a team that has won, I think, five trophies, if I’m not mistaken.

“Okay. In three seasons, they are challenging for the league title, it doesn’t matter. And still, whether they finished top of their group in the Caf Champions League, and they are still in the cup. So at the end of it all, I think Riviero has done a remarkable job. Mamelodi Sundowns is just an incredibly well-oiled machine.”

Pirates have already secured one trophy this season and topped their Caf Champions League group.

Despite their success, the team faces challenges with fatigue and squad rotation due to a demanding schedule.

Makaab believes Pirates needed more reinforcements in the previous transfer window to compete effectively.

Their progress in continental football will further test their squad depth.

The club must assess which players to sign at the end of the season.

Pirates will face second-tier side Baroka in the Nedbank Cup.

They aim to secure a spot in the quarter-finals.

Squad rotation will be crucial as they balance multiple competitions.

A strong performance could build momentum for the league and continental campaigns.