Orlando Pirates have come under fire from supporters following the decision to release defender Thabiso Sesane as part of a list of seven departing players.
Many fans believe the 26-year-old centre-back still had plenty to offer the Buccaneers and should have been given another opportunity.
Sesane enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in 2024, establishing himself as a key figure in Pirates‘ defence before his season was cut short by injury.
His absence paved the way for Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s emergence. The youngster seized his opportunity, helping Pirates win two trophies before securing a move to Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire.
Although Sesane recovered from injury in December and featured in the Black Label Cup, he did not make an official appearance for Pirates during the 2025/26 season.
His departure has sparked widespread frustration among supporters, with many questioning why experienced defender Tapelo Xoki, who is now over 30 and saw limited game time, remains at the club.
Some fans took to social media to express their disappointment in the club’s decision.
@Dancehallsoldi6 wrote: “I just want to understand the logic behind letting a 26-year-old Thabiso Sesane leave permanently while keeping a 31-year-old Xoki. A loan move would’ve made much more sense if game time was the issue. Sesane is entering his prime.”
Sesane leaves Pirates, joins Siwelele
@40connacher wrote: “Who in their right mind releases Sesane and Rasebotja? I wish these boys could haunt us wherever they go. We keep releasing good players because they get injured, and once they recover, we let them go. What nonsense is this? You bring in a rookie to defend…”
@KG_BUCS wrote: “Some of the football decisions you make are laced with emotion. How do you release Sesane while Xoki is still your player?”
@PirateAnti_Hero wrote: “Why on earth would you release Sesane but keep Xoki and Sibisi? What kind of nonsense is this?”
Sesane, Selaelo Rasebotja, Siyabonga Ndlozi, Gomolemo Khoto, Sonwabo Khumalo, Blessing Ngiba and Seth Green are the seven players released by Pirates on Sunday.