Leading iDiski Times reporter Sinethemba Makonco has reported that Orlando Pirates have all but completed the signings of Mthetheleni Mthiyane and Sbangani Zulu.
The moves follow a week after coach Abdeslam Ouaddou revealed the need to bring more physically opposing players ahead of the 2026/27 CAF Champions League.
TWO NEW ADDITIONS AT ORLANDO PIRATES
Mthiyane, aged 25, plays as a defensive midfielder for Stellenbosch FC, while Zulu, is a 22-year-old central defender at Richards Bay FC.
Orlando Pirates signed Sihle Nduli from Stellies last season, before Mthiyane came in as his replacement. The Buccaneers also completed business with Richards Bay in that same 2025 window with the signings of Nkosikhona Ndaba and Yanela Mbuthuma.
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MTHETHELELI MTHIYANE
Born in Richards Bay, KwaZulu Natal, Mthiyane is one of South Africa’s most highly-rated defensive midfielders.
Left: Mthiyane and Right: Zulu. Images: Stellenbosch FC and Ayanda Shots/ Facebook
Born on 21 January 2001, Mthiyane he came through the Bissa Academy before making a name at Milford FC in the Motsepe Foundation Championship. Nicknamed ‘Vieira’ for his physical presence and tireless work rate, Mthiyane caught the eye for his combination of technical elegance and robustness as a defensive shield.
This ultimately earned him a move to Stellenbosch FC ahead of the 2025/26 season. He made 30 appearances in all competitions, while also making Bafana Bafana’s preliminary squad in March 2026.
SBANGANI ZULU
Hailing from eNgonweni, eNdwedwe, in KwaZulu-Natal, Zulu stood out as one of the most-promising young central defenders in Mzansi last season.
He came through the DStv Diski Challenge ranks at Royal AM, showing physical strength. Zulu made his Betway Premiership debut in the 2024/25 season before later scoring a goal against Mamelodi Sundowns.
In April 2025, Richards Bay FC secured his services. Wearing the number 37 jersey, he earned praise for his physical dominance, and strong aerial ability in 25 appearances.
Meanwhile, the Buccaneers can only announce new signings when the transfer window opens on 1 July.
WHAT DO YOU MAKE OF THESE SIGNINGS FROM ORLANDO PIRATES?
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