The future of Orlando Pirates striker Tshegofatso Mabasa is under
intense scrutiny as his continued absence from the team coincides with a
contract that is set to expire in less than a year.
Mabasa has been a conspicuous omission from the Buccaneers’ matchday squads,
failing to feature in a league match since September. His absence is
particularly notable given the team’s unbeaten record in all competitions
this season in the games he has played, leading to calls from a section of
the fanbase for his reinstatement to aid the club’s title challenge.
The situation is complicated by the striker’s contractual status. Informed
sources have confirmed to PSLSA that the 29-year-old’s deal is winding down.
“He is coming to the end of his contract at Orlando Pirates, and this is his
last season, it is ending in June next year,” a source close to the
situation revealed. “He has not extended at Pirates yet.”
This timeline means Mabasa will be eligible to sign a pre-contract with a
new club in January 2025, just a few months away, putting pressure on the
club to resolve his situation.
While coach Ouaddou previously explained Mabasa’s absence as a tactical
choice for a specific CAF Confederation Cup match against Lupopo, the
striker’s prolonged exile from the squad suggests his future at the
Houghton-based club is increasingly uncertain. As Pirates prepare for their
next league fixture against Chippa United on November 25, all eyes will be
on whether Mabasa’s situation changes.
