Orlando Pirates New Boy Mpho Chabatsane Earns High Praise as Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s Successor
Orlando Pirates’ latest recruit Mpho Chabatsane has already begun winning admirers, with both club legends and the coaching staff hailing him as the ideal replacement for departed defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi.
The left-footed defender joined the Soweto giants from Marumo Gallants during the mid-season transfer window, stepping into a demanding role after Mbokazi completed a move to Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire.
Also Read: Here Is How Much Chicago Fire Paid for Orlando Pirates Star Mbekezeli Mbokazi
Ramokadi: “He gave Pirates headaches”
Former Pirates striker Bruce Ramokadi believes Chabatsane has the temperament and ability required to succeed at the Buccaneers, describing him as a solid defender who consistently impressed against top opposition.
“Chabatsane is Mbokazi’s replacement. Judging by his performances, he is a solid defender. He is the one who used to give us headaches every time Pirates faced Marumo Gallants,”Ramokadi told KickOff.
Coach impressed by left-foot quality
Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou echoed the praise, highlighting Chabatsane’s technical ability and precision as key assets.
“And about Chabatsane, if you see the quality of his left foot, I think he’s a player that has a hand instead of a foot. “I use this expression to say that he’s very precise with his left foot. I’m sure he will definitely help us when he comes,”said Ouaddou.
Club highlights steady rise through the ranks
In announcing the signing, Orlando Pirates detailed Chabatsane’s journey through South African football, praising his steady progression and versatility.
The defender began his career in amateur football before representing NWU-Vaal in the third tier. He later turned out for JDR Stars in the second division before making his Premiership debut for Marumo Gallants in November 2024.
Able to operate both centrally and out wide in defence, Chabatsane has been identified as one of the brightest emerging talents in local football.
Reinforcements arrive at crucial stage
Chabatsane is one of three players signed by Pirates during the mid-season window as the club looks to keep its squad competitive during a crucial phase of the campaign.
The Sea Robbers are chasing the league title after already securing two domestic trophies, and the new additions are expected to play a key role as the season reaches its decisive stages.
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