Orlando Pirates have completed a major squad rebuild ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
Orlando Pirates have now confirmed 10 new signings during the current transfer window, with Edmilson “Millies” Chaney becoming the latest addition.
The 19-year-old joins from Hope FC after playing a key role in the club’s promotion to the Motsepe Foundation Championship. Chaney is not the only new face at Bucs, with the club bringing in a mixture of experienced players and exciting young talent.
The Buccaneers have strengthened virtually every area of the squad.
Here is the full list of the nine players signed alongside Chaney:
Sebastian Pedersen
– 27-year-old striker, signed from
Sundal
.
Gamphani Lungu
– 27-year-old winger, signed from
Siwelele FC
.
Thapelo Mokobodi
– 23-year-old midfielder, signed from
Stellenbosch FC
.
Mthetheleli Mthiyane
– 25-year-old midfielder, signed from
Stellenbosch FC
.
Sbangani Zulu
– 24-year-old defender, signed from
Richards Bay FC
.
Bohlale Ngwato
– 20-year-old winger, signed from
Siwelele FC
.
Neo Rapoo
– 20-year-old left back, brought in from
Silwele
FC.
Matome Mmolai
– 23-year-old midfielder, added from
Leicesterford
FC
.
Aphiwe Baliti
– 24-year-old left back, remained at Siwelele FC on loan.
The recruitment drive highlights Orlando Pirates’ intention to build squad depth while maintaining competition for places. The Buccaneers are coming off a hugely successful campaign and will now have to balance domestic commitments with another demanding season.
The arrivals also give head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou more options as he looks to defend the club’s Betway Premiership title. With Chaney completing the list, Orlando Pirates have now welcomed 10 new players ahead of the new campaign.
The question now is whether this new-look squad can deliver more silverware for the Buccaneers.
After lifting the domestic league title last season, attention now turns to continental football as they chase a historic second African title.
The Buccaneers will begin their journey in the first preliminary round. They have been drawn against Mauritian champions La Cure Waves in a two-legged tie.
Unlike some of the continent’s bigger clubs who received byes into the next round, Orlando Pirates must navigate the opening stage.
The Buccaneers will be expected to take control of the tie from the first leg. They will also need to manage the challenges that come with travelling across the continent.
The club’s recent domestic form has provided plenty of encouragement. However, the CAF Champions League brings a different level of pressure.
The ultimate target is not simply to reach the group stage. Orlando Pirates want to go all the way.
