Orlando Pirates’ league title bid rests on new signings adapting, says Jerry Sikhosana

Orlando Pirates legend Jerry Sikhosana says the club’s chances of claiming the league title will hinge on how quickly their new signings adapt to the demands and expectations of the team.

Following an intense early-season transfer window that saw more than ten players join the Soweto giants, the Buccaneers have wasted little time further strengthening their squad, particularly after losing key defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi to Major League Soccer’s Chicago Fire.

Currently locked in a fierce battle with Mamelodi Sundowns, the resumption of the league in less than a week will test the Buccaneers’ character — the same test they struggled with last season. Despite a strong start in the 2024/25 campaign, they failed to maintain momentum and ultimately fell short in their pursuit to end their league drought.

This season feels different, with the squad strengthened by new signings providing depth in areas that previously held them back — a factor that will prove crucial as the campaign enters its busiest phase.

Speaking at a Hollywoodbets event where former Liverpool striker Michael Owen was unveiled as one of the company’s ambassadors, Sikhosana stressed that there is still a long way to go before he can start singing the team’s praises.

“I cannot say that Pirates will just walk in terms of taking the league. Yes, they stand a good chance, and they have all the quality," Sikhosana said.

“But this is football, and it will depend on how they continue from where they left off. The break for the Africa Cup of Nations might have serious consequences in terms of their momentum.”

Former Stellenbosch midfielder Andre de Jong has been the most eye-catching signing of this window for the Buccaneers, alongside Marumo Gallants duo Daniel Msendami and Mpho Chabatsane. Sikhosana stressed that for all three, a bright start will be crucial, laying the foundation to carry the team toward its long-awaited destination.

“The new players — Chabatsane, Msendami, and De Jong — are they really going to carry this burden? Because this is a big club, the pressure is real. I’m speaking from experience — it’s not just about playing well for a certain team; you come to Pirates, and the same challenges apply. It will depend on whether the new players bolster the team or fade out.”

The former striker added that De Jong brings a new dimension to the team, but he will face stiff competition from players whose style aligns more closely with what Pirates fans enjoy. He also stressed that the new players cannot rely solely on past success at their former clubs, as the transition to Pirates carries its own unique challenges.

“It’s going to be difficult. If you look at the players De Jong will be competing with at Pirates, they are skilful, they are ball jugglers, and they enjoy playing with the ball," Sikhosana noted.

“And then you have someone like De Jong — he is more tactical and does not play the type of football Orlando Pirates supporters love to see. He is more tactical and disciplined and plays accordingly.

“There will be situations where he needs to stand up and handle the pressure, both from the playing personnel and the expectations of the supporters. But personally, I trust and believe in him because he will bring a tactical dimension — exactly what the coach values.

“Some Pirates fans might find his style boring because they want to see ball jugglers like Patrick Maswanganyi and Relebohile Mofokeng, but let’s hope De Jong rises to the occasion and proves to be a quality player for Pirates.”