Monnapule Saleng’s Struggles Continue After Orlando Pirates Loan to Orbit College

Orbit College winger Monnapule Saleng has yet to make the impact many expected since joining the club on loan from Orlando Pirates. The 27-year-old speedster, once one of the league’s most exciting wingers, has struggled to find his footing, leaving coach Pogiso Makhonye concerned about his performances.

In four appearances for Orbit, Saleng has not scored or assisted, raising questions about his current form and his ability to lead the team.

Underwhelming Performances Spark Concern

Speaking on Metro FM’s Sports Night Amplified, Makhonye admitted that Saleng’s start has been disappointing. “So far, I think he’s not given us what we expected from him as a big player. A player that comes in as a big name, so we need to assess whether the team performs better when he’s in the squad or not,” he explained.

Despite his past achievements with Orlando Pirates, Saleng has yet to recapture that level of performance at Orbit. “Out of the four games he has played, he’s not the Saleng we used to see. He hasn’t contributed much—no goals, no assists,” Makhonye added.

Also read: Why Monnapule Saleng Will Miss Pirates Clash

Orbit College Performs Well Without Him

Saleng was absent during Orbit’s 1-0 defeat to Orlando Pirates, watching from the stands. Interestingly, Makhonye noted that the team performed better without him, with younger players stepping up.

“Even when we played against Pirates, and he was not part of the team, the youngsters did very well. We will help him adjust, but the team comes first. We need to work together to improve,” the coach said.

High Expectations and the Captaincy Challenge

Saleng’s loan move to Orbit was meant to reignite his career. Makhonye even handed him the captain’s armband on arrival, signalling faith in his leadership. Yet, placing such responsibility on a player who has barely featured for Pirates may have been premature.

“Now they want to rely on him. Is he ready to lead? Maybe we gave him too much responsibility, and we need to support him,” Makhonye admitted.

Also read: Is Monnapule Saleng’s Time at Orlando Pirates Coming to an End?

Room for Growth and Improvement

Despite early struggles, Makhonye remains hopeful. He emphasised the need to assess both the team and Saleng over the coming weeks, particularly ahead of important matches. “We need him to up his game. The mentality is key—he must lead as a big player. When he’s on the field, the team looks to him, but we must also ensure he contributes effectively,” the coach said.

Saleng’s future at Orbit will depend on how quickly he can regain confidence and start contributing tangible results on the pitch.

Can Monnapule Saleng Turn Things Around?

While his start at Orbit College has been underwhelming, Monnapule Saleng still has the opportunity to rediscover the form that once made him one of South Africa’s top wingers. With the club, coach, and young teammates backing him, all eyes will be on the winger as he looks to lead and inspire on the field.

If he can deliver, Saleng could turn his loan spell into a career-reviving move, proving he is still a force to be reckoned with in the domestic league.

Related article: Orlando Pirates’ Handling of Saleng Sparks Debate Over Player Welfare