Orlando Pirates are preparing for a significant squad overhaul, with experienced defenders Tapelo Xoki and Bandile Shandu expected to leave at the end of the season. Xoki, the former AmaZulu captain, has not played at all this term due to injury and his expiring contract makes an extension unlikely. Shandu, meanwhile, has fallen down the pecking order behind Deano van Rooyen, Kamogele Sebelebele, and Thabiso Lebitso at right-back. His agent, Mike Makaab, confirmed to FARPost that the defender is unlikely to stay and that they are exploring other opportunities.
These departures come as Pirates have already released Olisa Ndah, signaling a clear intention to refresh their defensive unit. The timing is crucial, as the Buccaneers have secured qualification for next season’s CAF Champions League after Kaizer Chiefs lost midweek. That continental campaign carries immense financial weight, with the prize money reportedly around R100 million—a figure that dwarfs the R20 million they have already earned from domestic trophy successes this season.
Under head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, Pirates have won two domestic trophies and remain in contention for a treble if results go their way. However, the early Champions League exit this season, losing on penalties to DR Congo’s Saint Éloi Lupopo, highlighted their need for depth and quality. With the transfer window approaching, fans will be watching closely to see which reinforcements the club targets to build a squad capable of competing on both fronts next year.