Why Saleng is NO LONGER worth the trouble for Orlando Pirates

Orlando Pirates must wash their hands of Monnapule Saleng and move forward before the situation derails their progress.

Monnapule Saleng is class

Just to make it clear, this publication has no issue with Monnapule Saleng. He’s a wonderful player, one of the best in the country, but relations between the player and club have broken down. The only viable way forward now is an amicable split.

‘No one player is bigger than any club, especially Orlando Pirates’

It’s an adage but it’s an adage because it’s true. We’ve seen it mentioned in several comments sections on the publication when we’ve discussed Saleng, and it’s difficult to disagree. Pirates already have the exciting talents of Mohau Nkota so make the right-sided attacking role his own. If they fetch a handsome sum for Saleng, that money can be reinvested in several new options.

Saleng could benefit from a change of scenery

According to veteran journalist and SoccerBeat owner Peter du Toit, there’s a big discrepancy between what’s written in the media and the actual truth regarding Monnapule Saleng. Egyptian side Al Ahly had a real interest in signing Saleng but had to hold fire on completing the deal until they could finalise Percy Tau’s exit from the club. Pirates, allegedly, didn’t inform Saleng why the move had stalled. Tau’s protracted move to Qatar finally happened, but by then, the relationship between Pirates and Salend had already broken down. Disgruntled, the player’s attendance at training sessions hasn’t been as exemplary as expected. A new club and a new focus could be just what Monnapule Saleng needs to rediscover his magical, mercurial best.

Nobody can take 2022-2023 away from Saleng

The 2022-2023 season was one of THE outstanding individual campaigns from a player in PSL history. Saleng banged in 15 goals and supplied 11 assists in 30 matches across all competitions. He was peerless, and rightly named PSL Player of the Season. The Pirates board might regret their decision not to cash in sooner when his value and reputation peaked.

What’s a fair price for Saleng in today’s market?

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