From Africa to America, players dream of Europe, home to the game’s top five leagues. For Orlando Pirates pair Tshegofatso Mabasa and Thalente Mbatha, this could soon become a reality.
Reports suggest both are being monitored by Championship side Sunderland AFC, who remain in contention for a return to the Premier League as playoffs loom.
“It’s the same club [Sunderland] interested in another Pirates player, Thalente Mbatha. It’s believed that when the scouts came to look at Mbatha they were also happy with Mabasa, and they had to assess him further in other games and apparently they were happy and they have enquired about him. So, Sunderland are the club interested in Tshegofatso Mabasa,” SoccerLaduma stated.
Win the league title or not, Orlando Pirates have enjoyed a meteoric season under Jose Riveiro’s command, gaining worldwide attention for their Champions League displays.
Wydad want Riveiro
According to reports, Wydad Athletic are in talks with Jose Riveiro and could part ways with former Mamelodi Sundowns boss Rhulani Mokwena.
KickOff confirmed the speculation, saying, “According to reports from Morocco, Wydad Athletic Club have been offered the chance to sign Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro amid the exit rumours regarding Rulani Mokwena. According to North African outlet 365Scores.com, an intermediary has offered the Wydad management the opportunity to replace Mokwena with Riveiro at the end of the domestic campaign.
“The Spaniard recently confirmed that he will leave the Buccaneers when his contract expires at the end of the season. The report adds that Riveiro’s salary is believed to be significantly lower than Mokwena’s, and the Moroccan giants are currently working towards parting ways with their coach by mutual consent.”
Who should Orlando Pirates next boss be?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
