Pirates Legend Criticizes Monnapule Saleng Amid Exit Rumors

Former Orlando Pirates captain Lucky Lekgwathi has delivered a scathing assessment of Monnapule Saleng, blaming the winger's contract dispute and absence for derailing the club's ambitions this season.

Lekgwathi Doesn’t Hold Back

Speaking to local media, Lekgwathi said:

“The whole Saleng situation nearly derailed everything, in my opinion. Without that drama, we’d be having a completely different conversation right now.”

He pointed to the impact of the winger’s absence on squad depth:

“As things stand, if Mohau Nkota isn’t available, we’re left scrambling with no clear replacement for that right side.”

Saleng's Sudden Disappearance

The 27-year-old South African international hasn’t featured for the Soweto giants since early December due to a fallout with management over salary demands. With negotiations stalling and the club refusing to meet his terms, tensions escalated behind the scenes.

Costly Fallout

Pirates’ CAF Champions League exit and failure to seriously challenge Mamelodi Sundowns for the Betway Premiership title have only magnified the significance of Saleng’s absence, according to Lekgwathi.

Exit on the Cards?

With rumors swirling around an off season departure, Saleng’s future at the club looks increasingly uncertain. His exit could bring end to once-promising chapter that has now become mired in controversy.

The spotlight's firmly on the Pirates management and how they handle the looming decision reconciliation or release.