Orlando Pirates had been heavily linked with a move for Polokwane City defender Thabang Matuludi during the recent transfer window. However, it has now come to light why the highly regarded full-back did not make the move to Mayfair.
The Buccaneers, who are aiming for success in the Betway Premiership, Nedbank Cup, and CAF Champions League in the coming months, entered the transfer window with high expectations. But, in a surprising turn of events, Orlando Pirates did not sign any new players during January. Now, further details have emerged regarding the Matuludi deal.
Why Matuludi Didn’t Join Orlando Pirates Matuludi, a talented full-back for Polokwane City, had been a strong contender to join Pirates, but the transfer never materialized. Unfortunately, the player sustained a severe knee injury in January, which led to the club abandoning their interest.
A source close to the situation revealed to Citizen, “Football is unpredictable, and injuries are part of the game. Sadly for him, the timing of the injury was wrong, which is why the move didn’t happen.” Despite this setback, the insider expressed confidence that Matuludi, once he recovers, would attract attention from other big clubs, particularly from Soweto, in the future.
The priority for Matuludi now is his recovery after surgery, with hopes to get back on the field as soon as possible.
Jose Riveiro’s Take on the January Window Orlando Pirates coach, Jose Riveiro, also addressed the club’s decision not to sign any players during January, explaining that he is content with the squad he has.
He said, “We currently have 37 players in the squad, all of them quality, experienced, and in good condition across every position. As always, we keep an eye on the market during each transfer window, but this time we didn’t make any moves. That doesn’t mean it won’t happen in the future or that we’re not doing our job as a club.”
Riveiro emphasized that, for now, the existing squad is what will carry the team through the remainder of the season, with the focus on achieving the goals set for the year.
