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Abdeslam Ouaddou, Orlando Pirates, April 2026

Will Makgopa feature in the Soweto Derby? Ouaddou gives update on Pirates star ahead of Chiefs showdown

The Sea Robbers are at a crucial juncture of their season as they chase what has been an elusive Premier Soccer League title. To outmuscle Mamelodi Sundowns in the tight race, Bucs will need their stars, especially the experienced ones like Makgopa. However, the centre-forward has been used sparingly, but the coach is confident he is close to full fitness.

Yanela Mbuthuma and Ronwen Williams, Orlando Pirates vs Mamelodi Sundowns

Mbuthuma & Makgopa should be worried! Ouaddou ready to bring in an eight-goal striker

The Sea Robbers have been creating chances in matches but struggled to take them despite having experienced players at their disposal. Questions have been asked about the ability of the club realising their ambition of winning all the available domestic trophies. So far, they have secured the MTN8 and the Carling Knockout.

Tshegofatso Mabasa, Stellenbosch FC, January 2026

Is this why Mabasa was let go by Pirates? Ouaddou sends warning to 'lazy' players

The former Premier League outfit Fulham and Morocco defender has been giving players chances to prove their worth at the Sea Robbers. However, he has also made some daring calls like letting the South Africa international striker leave in the recent transfer window. The 47-year-old tactician has now justified his decision.

Radiopane next to leave Pirates? Agent responds to exit speculations

Questions have been raised about the future of the 23-year-old striker. The young man, nicknamed the Radio-man, has seen his playing time at the Soweto giants limited due to stiff competition. The Radio-man's failure to capitalise on the initial opportunities afforded to him by coach Abdeslam Ouaddou at the beginning of the ongoing 2025/26 campaign.

'Mentality' - Ex-Swedish top-flight star slams South African fans as they would attack Haaland amid Makgopa criticism

Few players have faced as much scrutiny as the 25‑year‑old lanky forward. Critics highlight flaws, but his six goals and two assists for Bafana Bafana show undeniable value. His performances at club and national level reveal a striker who thrives under pressure, turning doubt into fuel for his rise.

Chiefs legend Khune throws weight behind Makgopa, unpacking the Pirates star’s true value for Bafana at AFCON

The 25-year-old has continued to face questions over whether he can truly lead South Africa’s attack at the continental competition out in Morocco. Makgopa remains among the top scorers for Pirates this season, yet his inconsistent form at international level has left sections of supporters uncertain about his impact.

Evidence Makgopa, Relebohile Mofokeng, Orlando Pirates, November 2025

Agent pushing for Makgopa to leave Pirates as he believes Bafana star would 'thrive in English Championship'

The in‑form forward has linked up with Bafana Bafana as the squad sharpens its plans for the Nations Cup in Morocco, scheduled for the December to January window. His inclusion comes after a strong opening to the 2025/26 season, where his early impact earned him a deserved call into the national setup once again.

Ouaddou expresses confidence in current Pirates strikers ahead of January transfer window

The Buccaneers sit at the pinnacle of South African football, having already lifted the MTN8, Carling Knockout and Carling Cup at the halfway mark of the 2025/26 season. Pirates also lead the Premier Soccer League standings, placing them firmly in the race for a historic league title when domestic action resumes in January, with momentum clearly on their side.

'Irvin Khoza to blame, but referee favoured Pirates! Chiefs should appoint Manqoba'

Even though some of their key players were not available, the Sea Robbers outshone the combined All-Stars team to secure another trophy. The exhibition match at the Moses Mabhida Stadium gave the Soweto giants a chance to add another collection into their trophy cabinet. The victory in the Carling Black Label Cup came after they had secured a cup double following their success in the Carling Knockout.

'Loan Radio, mistake to sale Mabasa! Xoki, Shandu & Wadu out, Mokwena in!'

The Sea Robbers have been doing well in South African domestic football this season where they have already won the MTN8 and the Carling Knockout. The Buccaneers are now tipped to go all the way and win the Premier Soccer League owing to their form, quality, and depth. Bucs are also hoping to make an impact in the Nedbank Cup.

Tshegofatso Mabasa, Bandile Shandu & Boitumelo Radiopane, Orlando Pirates 16-9

Five Pirates players who need a move away in January

The Buccaneers boast enviable depth across the pitch, giving head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou options in every department. But that strength has a shadow side: talented players slipping down the pecking order, roles shrinking confidence fading, and careers stalling as competition intensifies in a squad built to challenge on all fronts.

Boitumelo Radiopane and Relebohile Mofokeng, Orlando Pirates

Where is Pirates star? Agent clarifies as transfer speculation intensifies

His absence from recent matchday squads has raised questions, forcing his agent to clear the air amid his absence. The arrival of head coach Adeslam Ouaddou gave the forward a new lease of life, as he was the preferred striker when the season began. Speculation around his future has intensified over the recent weeks, but what has kept him out of the team has been revealed.

Sihle Nduli, Tshegofatso Mabasa, Thalente Mbatha, Orlando Pirates, September 2025

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Frequently asked questions

: Cole Palmer is an extremely technical player who features as either a central attacking midfielder or a right winger for Chelsea. He is left-footed, which allows him to cut in from the right flank when he's used as a winger.
: Cole Palmer was born in Wythenshawe, Manchester, in England.
: Cole Palmer wears the No. 20 shirt at Chelsea, assigned to him when the club signed him from Manchester City in 2023.
: Cole Palmer stands at 1.89m (6ft 2in) tall. Although he's not the quickest offensive player, he possesses exceptional technical ability and game sense.
: Chelsea talisman Cole Palmer weighs 74kg (163 lbs).
: Cole Palmer joined the Manchester City youth setup for their under-eights in 2010, despite growing up as a Manchester United fan.
: Cole Palmer is yet to become a father.
: Although the English international is yet to confirm it publicly, he was spotted on a vacation in Ibiza with manicurist and influencer Connie Grace shortly after the completion of Euro 2024, sparking rumours of a relationship.

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