Orlando Pirates made an expected announcement of goodbye to Siyabonga Mpontshane in June. The 38-year-old has now been spotted at the club’s training ground.
ORLANDO PIRATES’ DECISION ON SIYABONGA MPONTSHANE
Following the arrivals of Sipho Chaine and Melusi Buthelezi over the last three seasons, the Sea Robbers unsurprisingly decided against giving Mpontshane a new deal when his contract expired last June.
“The 38-year-old will be leaving after nine seasons with the us,” Orlando Pirates said on 7 June.
“His tenure has been marked by exceptional discipline and dedication, making him one of our most respected and appreciated members of the team,” the note added.
NEW ROLE
Meanwhile, Mpontshane has been spotted working as a goalkeeper assistant coach to coach Tyron Damons at Orlando Pirates.
Siyabonga Mpontshane at the Orlando Stadium. Image: @Velile_Mnyandu/X.
In the meantime, Orlando Pirates will take on Madagascar’s Disciples FC in the CAF Champions League preliminary round qualifier on Friday night at 19:30 at the Sea Robbers‘ Orlando Stadium. The first leg ended 0-0 at the Côte d’Or National Sports Complex last week.
A win for Jose Riveiro’s side will seal a place in the second-round preliminary stage. Success over two legs will book a place in the group stages.