Orlando Pirates midfielder Thalente Mbatha has spoken out about recent allegations that he arrived at the club’s training grounds intoxicated.
This week, rumors circulated on social media, claiming that the young player showed up at Rand Stadium under the influence of alcohol, which allegedly kept him from participating in the day’s training sessions.
In response to the damaging accusations, Mbatha’s agent, Mike Makaab, took to social media to demand a public apology.
He strongly denied the claims, stating: “It is deeply disappointing to see defamatory and unfounded allegations being made about a professional footballer’s character and conduct. The claim that Thalente Mbatha arrived at training under the influence is completely false,” Makaab wrote on his X account.
Makaab went on to clarify that Mbatha had been recovering from an injury, which is why he hadn’t participated in previous sessions. “Thalente was injured and has since resumed training with his team,” he added. “Any suggestion that his absence was due to serious misconduct is damaging and defamatory.”
Makaab further demanded a public apology, stating that failure to do so would leave them with no choice but to pursue legal action. “Freedom of speech is vital, but it should not extend to spreading false rumors that harm someone’s reputation,” he concluded.
Mbatha, who has played 13 times for Orlando Pirates this season, scoring three goals, also addressed the allegations himself on Instagram Live.
He clarified: “They said I’m not training, but I just came back from training. People can say whatever about me, but I’m coming from training. You’ll see me tomorrow [against Golden Arrows].”
He added, “If someone knows better, maybe they’re the ones who hired me or own the club. When you’re doing well, people always try to bring you down.”
Mbatha reassured fans that he was fit and ready for the upcoming match against Golden Arrows, should the coaching staff choose to include him in the squad.
The question now is whether Mbatha will be part of the Orlando Pirates lineup for their Wednesday night match against Golden Arrows.
