Sekhukhune United, Stellenbosch FC & Kaizer Chiefs transfer target's move to Orlando Pirates confirmed - 'It’s a big club and there will be a lot of competition'

Marumo Gallants midfielder Masindi Nemtajela's transfer to Orlando Pirates has been confirmed as the Buccaneers beat their PSL rivals to the player's signature.

The 23-year-old's exploits sparked interest from the likes of Stellenbosch FC, Kaizer Chiefs, Sekhukhune United, as well as Pirates. 

Gallants head coach Adeslam Ouaddou Nemtajela has now reacted to Nemtajela's move to Pirates and backed the midfield maestro to succeed at the Soweto giants. 

“You know, Masindi [Nemtajela] is a very great professional. We are happy for him and wish him good luck in his new endeavour,” Ouaddou told FARPost. 

“He and his family should be proud, and we, as coaches, are proud as well. Now, he is going to leave Bloemfontein for Orlando Pirates. 

"It’s a big club, and there will be a lot of competition. So, he has to be professional and keep working in order to continue improving himself."

The former Senaoane Gunners star was one of Gallants' key players during the 2024/25 season as he helped the team retain their status in the PSL and reach the Nedbank Cup semi-finals.

Wickey Penda featured in 20 matches for Siwelele Sa Marumo - providing two assists and scoring once, a goal coming in a league win over TS Galaxy in March.

He is set to compete with the likes of Thalente Mbatha, Simphiwe Selepe, Goodman Mosele and Makhehlele Makhaula in Pirates' midfield.

Nemtajela is expected to report for Pirates' pre-season training in June, along with his new teammates, ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

Prior to that, the former ABC Motsepe Gauteng player will represent South Africa at the 2025 Cosafa Cup in Bloemfontein, having been included in coach Vela Khumalo's squad.