Orlando Pirates have risen since the 2022/23 Premier Soccer League campaign when Spaniard tactician Jose Riveiro was handed the mantle.
In his debut season, he managed to help the Buccaneers win the MTN8 and Nedbank Cup titles, as well as help the Soweto giants finish second and qualify for the 2023/24 Caf Champions League. However, they were eliminated in the second preliminary round by Jwaneng Galaxy.
Riveiro successfully defended the domestic Cups and again, finished behind Mamelodi Sundowns in the PSL. Unlike the previous campaign, Bucs are currently in the group stage of the prestigious continental club competition.
To ensure his team has a chance to challenge for major honors in the 2024/25 edition, Riveiro strengthened his team and cut loose those he felt were surplus to requirements and added a few.
Who did Orlando Pirates release/sign?
Releases: Kermit Erasmus, Thabang Monare, Richard Ofori, Siyabonga Mpontshane, Fortune Makaringe, Souaibou Marou & Vincent Pule, Bongani Sam (Kaizer Chiefs), Lesedi Kapinga, Siphelo Baloni (Chippa United, loan), Azola Matrose (Chippa United), Cebo Mchunu (Milford FC, loan).
New signings: Delvi Miguel Vieira aka Gilberto (Petro de Luanda), Thuso Moleleki (Orbit College), Selaelo Rasebotja (SuperSport United), Deano van Rooyen (Stellenbosch FC), Bayanda Thabethe (Midlands Academy).
Orlando Pirates full squad this season
Goalkeepers: Melusi Buthelezi, Sipho Chaine, Sphamandla Gumede, Siyabonga Dladla
Defenders: Nkosinathi Sibisi, Tapelo Xoki, Olisa Ndah, Sandile Mthethwa, Thabiso Sesane, Innocent Maela, Paseka Mako, Deano Van Rooyen, Thabiso Monyane, Thabiso Lebitso, Bandile Shandu, Deon Hotto
Midfielders: Miguel Timm, Makhehlene Makhaula, Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo, Goodman Mosele, Thalente Mbatha, Selaelo Rasebotja, Patrick Maswanganyi, Karim Kimvuidi, Kabelo Dlamini, Azola Tshobeni, Thuso Moleleki, Monnapule Saleng, Relebohile Mofokeng, Katlego Otladisa, Gilberto, Mohau Nkota.
Forwards: Tshegofatso Mabasa, Zakhele Lepasa, Evidence Makgopa, Boitumelo Radiopane
