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Sipho Mbule, Bafana Bafana, December 2025

Makaab explains Mbule's shock Iraq move

Bafana Bafana star has shocked the South African football fraternity by completing a move to Iraqi Stars League outfit Zakho SC following his release from Orlando Pirates. The midfield maestro, who was expected to remain in the Premier Soccer League or head to a continental heavyweight, has instead opted for a fresh start in the Middle East.

Sipho Mbule, Bafana Bafana

'I hoped Mbule would go to Siwelele; How much will he earn in Iraq?' - Fans

Following the announcement of a move to an Iraq Stars League club, the South African football fraternity has expressed heartfelt messages for the fans' favourite, who was once expected to re-establish himself as one of the most talented and exciting players to watch. This came after he joined Orlando Pirates following a disappointing stint with Mamelodi Sundowns and a short loan spell at Sekhukhune United. However, his flair-filled return to prominence proved short-lived at the Soweto giants, where the 28-year-old struggled for consistent game time under Abdeslam Ouaddou.

Sipho Mbule, Orlando Pirates, October 2025

Mbule signs for Middle East club

Despite links to Siwelele and Kaizer Chiefs, the 28-year-old's agent insisted recently that the best option for the player nicknamed "Master Chef" was a fresh start away from the South African top flight. And so it has come to pass after an Iraq Stars League club has announced his signing.