Orlando Pirates fans have been left frustrated by the prolonged absence of star winger Monnapule Saleng. After weeks of speculation, head coach Jose Riveiro has finally addressed the situation, but his response has left many unanswered questions.
Saleng, one of the club’s most influential players, has not appeared in a competitive match for over two months. The 25-year-old has made only 13 appearances this season, contributing five goals and one assist. His sudden absence from matchday squads has raised concerns among supporters, with the club offering little information regarding his status.
The last update from the club in January referred to his absence as “temporary,” but there have been no further details on what is keeping him sidelined. This has left fans puzzled, especially considering Saleng’s crucial role in helping the Buccaneers secure their third consecutive MTN8 title.
At the Nedbank Cup media day in Sandton, Johannesburg, Riveiro was asked directly about Saleng’s absence. However, the coach remained tight-lipped on the matter, stressing that player health is a private matter.
“I don’t speak about the health of my players; it’s something that belongs to a private space. And the moment the club feels it’s time to address which players are injured, how long they’ll be out, and where they are in their recovery process, they will do it,” said Riveiro. “It’s not part of my job description, and it’s not an ethical thing to discuss.”
While Riveiro did touch on the recovery progress of players like Olisa Ndah and Goodman Mosele, he made it clear that Saleng’s situation would remain private for now, leaving fans still in the dark about his absence.
