Picture: orlando Pirates FC player, Monnapule Saleng
By OBAKENG MAJE
11 July 2025- The newly-promoted Orbit College FC coach, Pogisho Makhoye said they welcome back their former star player, Monnapule Saleng (27). This comes after Orlando Pirates FC loaned Saleng to his former club for the 2025/2026 season.
“This marks a significant reunion between Saleng and us. You will remember that Saleng played a pivotal role in the team. So, I am happy that he is back because he is like a son to me.
“I’m very happy to have my son back. I still cannot believe it. I think I will believe it when I see him when we return to training on Saturday or when the club unveils him,” said Makhoye.
He further said he personally pushed for the loan deal, having asked Orbit’s management to negotiate with Pirates to bring Saleng back to Rustenburg, where his professional journey began. Makhoye added that Saleng is one of the players he asked management to engage Pirates about, at least on loan.
“I’m so happy the deal went through. I was so excited to read it when Pirates announced it yesterday. Our connection with Saleng stretches back to eight years ago when I first discovered the young talent and brought him to Orbit College FC.
“I discovered the boy when he was young. I brought him to Rustenburg. I worked with him for three years. That’s why I say he’s like a son to me. I made him the player he is today. No one knows this player more than me,” he said.
He said this deep bond and understanding of Saleng’s abilities gives him confidence that the winger will thrive in familiar surroundings. Makhoye said Saleng previously played under him at Orbit before he moved to Free State Stars FC and later joined Orlando Pirates in 2021.
The Guardian 