Orlando Pirates released six players on Monday with midfielder Thabang Monare among the surprise inclusions while Wayne Sandilands could still remain at the club.
Pirates, like several other PSL clubs this off-season are seemingly on the persuit of a new-look squad for next season after failing to secure any silverware in the 2021/22 campaign.
Thapelo Xoki, and Nkosanathi Sibisi were the first to be announced as their defensive reinforcements joining from AmaZulu and Golden Arrows respectively, before Evidence Makgopa, Bienvenu Eva Nga, Miguel Timm and Azola Matrose were all confirmed – taking their overall tally to six new signings.
While none of the latest additions came as a surprise after widely being reported in iDiski Times and across local media, the exit of Monare, who recently featured for Bafana Bafana against Guinea and France was something that not many expected.
Despite being 32 now, Monare enjoyed an impressive season as one of the leaders of the Buccaneers squad and played eight games in their run towards the CAF Confederation Cup final last season.
However, the club confirmed they couldn’t agree on personal terms for an extension and opted to part ways, which seemingly resulted in their last-ditch signing of Miguel Timm from Marumo Gallants on a free transfer.
Timm has agreed terms with Sekhukhune United but before officially putting pen to paper, he was offered a more lucrative contract by the Soweto giants, much to the dismay of the Babina Noko hierarchy.
Abel Mabaso, Kwanda Mngonyama, Justice Chabalala were all deemed surplus to requirements and not part of the first-team plans moving forward while DStv Diski Challenge goalkeeper Elson Sithole was also informed of his exit.
Sandilands, 38, is however one that could remain on in another role after his five years in Soweto since joining from domestic rivals Mamelodi Sundowns.
With nearly two decades of top-flight experience in the South African top-flight, he holds a wealth of experience that could be passed down to the younger upcoming stoppers and the club confirmed they are already in talks with the player.
Over his five seasons at the club, he made 80 appearances in all competitions keeping 35 clean sheets, while conceding 69 goals.
