From PSL Players' Player of the Season to Forgotten Star? Monnapule Saleng: What's next for 'sad' Orlando Pirates winger?

Monnapule Saleng’s rise to prominence has been nothing short of remarkable. After joining Orlando Pirates in July 2021 from Free State Stars, the talented winger initially went on loan to Moroka Swallows, where he showcased his skill and potential. His exploits earned him a spot back at Pirates, where he made an immediate impact. The 26-year-old has been instrumental in two MTN8 triumphs, scoring in both finals, including the decisive goal in the 2024 final against Stellenbosch. This season, he’s made 13 appearances, finding the net five times and providing one assist. His standout performances have extended to continental competitions, with his last Caf Champions League outing coming against Al Ahly in December. A former top scorer in the NFD, Saleng has proven himself as a player for the big moments. His ability to shine in crucial games makes his current situation all the more perplexing.

Saleng’s absence from the Pirates lineup has left fans and pundits speculating about the reasons behind the fallout. During a recent Caf Champions League clash with Stade d’Abidjan, cameras caught him, where he seemed to be failing to celebrate his team's goal—a moment that went viral and raised questions about his relationship with the club. Despite reportedly training with the squad. Reports suggest that personal issues may be at the center of the impasse, though nothing official has been confirmed.

Fans’ frustration has been compounded by the club's silence, as Saleng’s contributions have been pivotal to their recent successes. The lack of transparency has only deepened the controversy, with some accusing Pirates of mishandling one of their best talents. While reputable sources hint at personal reasons as well, Saleng’s reluctance to address the situation publicly has kept the rumor mill churning. Could this be a case of unresolved tensions, or is there more to the story than meets the eye?

For a player at the peak age of 26, Saleng’s career stands at a crucial crossroads. Prolonged absence from the field threatens to stifle his momentum during what should be his most productive years. If the issues behind the fallout are resolved, there’s little doubt he could bounce back stronger, as his track record speaks for itself. However, continued sidelining might force him to consider a fresh start elsewhere, which could be a loss for both the player and Pirates.

This situation also reignites conversations about the impact of off-field distractions—be it contractual, personal, or otherwise—on professional performance. Similar challenges have derailed many promising careers in football, but the attacker still has time to rewrite his narrative. His ability to deliver in critical moments suggests he has the tools to silence critics, provided he can overcome these obstacles. Ultimately, the decision lies in whether Pirates and Saleng can find common ground or if they’ll part ways, potentially leaving fans to wonder what could have been.

While Saleng’s talent is undeniable, Orlando Pirates have found a promising replacement in 20-year-old Mohau Nkota. The youngster has seamlessly filled the gap, making 13 appearances and contributing four goals and two assists this season. Nkota’s performances, combined with his rapid rise from the youth setup, have given Pirates fans reason to hope for a bright future without Saleng.

His energy, creativity, and fearlessness on the ball have shown maturity beyond his years. The youngster has also displayed a knack for stepping up in critical moments, proving that the team can thrive even in Saleng’s absence. While no one doubts Saleng’s quality, Nkota’s emergence suggests that Pirates may already have their next star in the making. The question now is whether Saleng’s absence is as significant as it once seemed.

Saleng’s current predicament raises more questions than answers. Will he return to Orlando Pirates and recapture the form that made him a fan favorite, or will this fallout mark the end of his journey at the club? At just 26, time is still on his side, but the longer this situation drags on, the more it threatens to derail his career.

His proven ability to perform on the biggest stages means he’ll undoubtedly find suitors if he decides to move on. Yet, for a player with so much left to give, fans will be hoping for a resolution that allows him to reach his full potential. Whether redemption comes in Pirates' colors or elsewhere, one thing is certain: Saleng’s story is far from over.