In one of the most talked-about moves of the PSL January transfer window, Monnapule Saleng has completed a surprising transfer from Orlando Pirates to Mamelodi Sundowns, a switch that has sent shockwaves through South African football. The 27-year-old winger is now part of the reigning PSL champions, marking a major twist in the 2025/26 season and reshaping one of the domestic game’s fiercest rivalries.
ALSO READ: Orlando Pirates Make History with Fourth Straight MTN8 Triumph.
A Surprise Move in the Title Race
Saleng’s move was confirmed by Sundowns on social media, with the club announcing his arrival to bolster their squad for the crucial second half of the PSL campaign. The transfer comes as a surprise because direct moves between Pirates and Sundowns are relatively rare in recent decades, making this a headline-grabbing piece of business.
The winger had spent the first half of the season on loan at Orbit College, where he featured regularly and contributed two goals and three assists in 11 league appearances, showcasing glimpses of the attacking prowess that once made him one of the league’s most exciting players.
What Led to the Switch?
Saleng’s departure from Pirates followed a turbulent spell at the club. Once a standout performer and fan favourite, helping Pirates to MTN8 and Nedbank Cup successes, his role diminished under the current technical setup, leading to limited game time and the subsequent loan to Orbit College.
Sources close to the situation suggest that Orlando Pirates opted to cash in on Saleng rather than risk losing him for free at the end of his contract, especially given his lack of consistent first-team involvement. Moving to Sundowns offers him a chance to reignite his career at a club that competes for domestic trophies and CAF Champions League honours.
A New Chapter in Yellow
Joining Mamelodi Sundowns places Saleng in a squad filled with established talents and national team players, but competition for places will be fierce. Sundowns’ coach and technical staff will be tasked with integrating Saleng into a team competing on multiple fronts, while fans and pundits remain divided on how well he will fit into an already star-studded lineup.
Saleng himself has acknowledged the emotional and professional complexity of the move. In statements following his departure from Pirates, he reflected on both the challenges and achievements of his time there, expressing gratitude for the opportunities and experiences that helped shape his career up to this point.
