Orlando Pirates are on the verge of finalising the signing of their ninth player for next season

According to press reports, Orlando Pirates have already signed number 9 for next season as part of the club's plan to strengthen the squad for the upcoming season.

The Sea Robbers are making waves in the transfer market yet again, confirming their ninth new signing of the season as Malian midfielder Abdoulaye Mariko puts pen to paper on a two-year deal with an option for a further year.

The 23-year-old, already spotted training with the squad, arrives as part of Pirates’ aggressive rebuild under new head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. Mariko now joins a growing list of fresh faces at Mayfair, including:

• Yanela Mbuthuma & Nkosikhona Ndaba (Richards Bay)

• Masindi Nemtajela (Marumo Gallants)

• Tshepang Moremi (AmaZulu)

• Sinoxolo Kwayiba (Chippa United)

More Big Moves on the Horizon?

Pirates aren’t done yet! Reports suggest they’re eyeing Neo Maema, the Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana playmaker, as their next marquee signing. However, they face stiff competition from Kaizer Chiefs, with Maema still under contract at Sundowns for another year.

A New Era Under Ouaddou

With the departure of longtime captain Innocent Maela—alongside Miguel Timm, Thabiso Monyane, and Paeko Mako—Pirates are ushering in a new leadership era. Ouaddou is set to name a new skipper soon, while four more exits could follow as the club refines its squad.

Hazem Mlhem |

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Hazem Mlhem est un rédacteur sportif expérimenté, animé par une passion pour le football africain.