Orlando Pirates Strengthen Squad for 2026/27 with Key Signings
Orlando Pirates have moved early and decisively in the market, landing three highly rated youngsters while confirming a trio of defensive exits ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
The Buccaneers, intent on refreshing and future-proofing their squad, have secured the signatures of Neo Rapoo, Aphiwe Baliti and Matome Mmolai – a blend of raw potential, top-flight experience and midfield energy that speaks to a clear recruitment plan rather than a scattergun rush.
Rapoo: Modern Full-Back for a Modern Pirates
The headline arrival is 20-year-old left-back Neo Rapoo, who joins from Siwelele FC.
A product of SuperSport United’s development system and already capped at South Africa youth international level, Rapoo fits the mould of the modern full-back: aggressive in the press, eager to overlap, and comfortable receiving the ball under pressure. He can defend his channel, then in the next phase drive into the final third and link play.
Pirates have been searching for full-backs who can stretch games and sustain attacks. Rapoo brings exactly that – energy, technical quality, and the kind of ceiling that makes coaches and scouts lean forward. At 20, he arrives as a project, but not a passenger.
Baliti Signs – Then Heads Back Out
Also arriving from Siwelele is 24-year-old defender Aphiwe Baliti, another left-back by trade but far from a one-position specialist.
Baliti can operate on either flank, offering cover across the back line. He has already felt the demands of the domestic top-flight, and that experience, combined with his athletic profile, makes him a useful asset in any defensive rotation.
The twist? Pirates have immediately sent him back to Siwelele on a season-long loan for 2026/27.
It’s a clear play: secure the player now, let him log another full season of first-team football, then bring back a more polished, battle-hardened defender. Pirates keep his long-term rights, Siwelele keep a reliable full-back for another year, and Baliti keeps playing. Everyone wins – provided he continues to grow.
Mmolai Bolsters the Engine Room
Completing the incoming trio is central midfielder Matome Mmolai, signed from Leicesterford City.
At 23, Mmolai arrives with the reputation of being energetic and technically assured, the kind of midfielder who wants the ball and rarely hides from it. He is comfortable knitting phases together, contributing both in build-up and in the press, and sliding between roles as the game demands.
For Pirates, who lean heavily on their midfield to control tempo and territory, this is a crucial addition. Mmolai doesn’t come as a luxury signing; he comes to compete. His presence deepens the options in the engine room and gives the coaching staff another profile to work with as they map out the new season.
Outgoing: Khoto and Ndlozi Move On, Mashiloane Loaned
While new faces arrive, others move on in search of opportunity.
The club has confirmed that Gomolemo Khoto and Siyabonga Ndlozi have completed permanent transfers to Sekhukhune United. Both leave the Buccaneers with the chance to carve out regular roles at Babina Noko, stepping into an environment where minutes will be earned on the pitch rather than promised on paper.
Right-back Tshepho Mashiloane will also return to Sekhukhune United on a season-long loan. For Pirates, it’s a strategic move: Mashiloane continues his development in familiar surroundings, Sekhukhune get a defender they know well, and the Buccaneers keep a close eye on his progress.
Three in, three out. Youth, versatility and energy in; experience and ambition out to test themselves elsewhere.
Pirates are not just filling shirts for 2026/27 – they are building a squad that will be judged on whether this careful reshaping can carry them closer to the standards their supporters demand.
