Orlando Pirates Part Ways with Paseka Mako and Thabiso Monyane

Orlando Pirates have officially announced the departure of Paseka Mako and Thabiso Monyane, two long-serving full-backs, as the club begins restructuring ahead of the 2025/26 season.

The news was confirmed on Friday afternoon, with the Buccaneers thanking both players for their service:

“The Club thanks them for their commitment and contribution to Orlando Pirates. Wishing them the very best in their next chapters.”

End of an Era for Mako

• Joined: July 2018 from Chippa United
• Appearances: 173
• Goals/Assists: 2 goals, 8 assists
• 2024/25 Season: 26 appearances (12 starts)
• Reason for Exit: Lost starting role to Deon Hotto in the left wing-back position

Mako’s contract will expire at the end of June, and with reduced playing time under the now-departed Jose Riveiro, the 31-year-old is set for a new challenge elsewhere.

Monyane Exits After Academy Rise

• Promoted: July 2019 from Pirates Academy
• Appearances: 94
• Goals/Assists: 4 goals, 4 assists
• 2024/25 Season: Just 12 appearances
• Reason for Exit: Dropped behind Deano van Rooyen and Tshepho Mashiloane in the pecking order

Injuries and lack of minutes plagued the 25-year-old’s campaign, and with no renewal offered, Monyane becomes a free agent on June 30.

Interestingly, he has been linked with a move to Kaizer Chiefs, where coach Nasreddine Nabi is seeking a right-back alternative to Thabang Matuludi, with current options Reeve Frosler and Dillon Solomons yet to fully convince.

Pirates’ Defensive Reshuffle Underway

The exits of Mako and Monyane bring the number of confirmed off-season departures to four, with Miguel Timm and Innocent Maela also on their way out.

The Soweto giants are clearly entering a new phase of squad evolution, especially in the defensive department, following a challenging campaign and the departure of head coach Jose Riveiro.