Orlando Pirates to say goodbye to these two defenders?

Orlando Pirates supporters are feeling as excited as ever. The Sea Robbers have a couple of news faces in the dressing room.

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ORLANDO PIRATES SIGN THABISO LEBITSO AND THALENTE MBATHA

As reported on Thursday morning, the Buccaneers have signed Lebiso (28) from Chippa United, and Mbatha (23) from SuperSport United.

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Full club statement:

“‘Orlando Pirates Football Club is pleased to announce the acquisition of Thalenthe Mbatha and Thabiso Lebitso.
 
Thabiso Lebitso, formerly of Chippa United, has signed a two-and-a-half-year deal. The 28-year-old shared his enthusiasm about joining the club. “Joining Orlando Pirates is a significant milestone in my career, and I’m eager to make a meaningful contribution to the team’s success,” Lebitso commented.
 
Thalenthe Mbatha, joining from SuperSport United, has been signed on an initial six-month loan deal with an option to purchase at the end of the season. Mbatha expressed his eagerness to begin this new chapter. “I’m thrilled to be here and can’t wait to start playing. I see this as a golden opportunity and intend to make the most of it,” he said.”‘

Pirates announce Lebitso and Mbatha. Photo: X.

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TWO DEFENDERS TO BE AFFECTED

While Lebitso is a winger, whispers from the Bucs camp say Jose Riveiro has a different plan.

It is believed that Lebitso will be converted into a right-wing-back. This is not surprising when you consider he did not score in 14 games this season.

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The Spaniard enjoys Deon Hotto’s speed and power on the left, but not so much from the right-hand side.

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Thabiso Monyane and Bandile Shandu both lost the position to a midfielder, Fortune Makaringe.

With Makaringe set to continue at right-back and compete with Lebitso, Monyane and Shandu are likely to leave.