Orlando Pirates tie down veteran midfielder with new deal – report

Orlando Pirates midfielder Makhehlene Makhaula has reportedly extended his stay with the club.

The 36-year-old veteran midfielder has been with the club for three years since joining from AmaZulu.

He has been praised for his work ethic, ball-winning ability as well as leadership qualities. Last season, Makhaula said he would retire from football if Orlando Pirates won the league.

According to Soccer Laduma, the experienced defensive midfielder is not considering hanging up his boots despite earning a league winners’ medal.

“Pirates have finalised a one-year contract extension with Makhehleni Makhaula ahead of the new season. He is now contracted to the club until June 2027 and remains an important part of coach Abdeslam Ouaddou’s plans,” a source told the publication.

“The technical team values his leadership, professionalism and experience. They believe he still has an important role to play as the club looks to defend its domestic trophies and challenge strongly in the CAF Champions League,” added the source.

Another year for Makhaula at Orlando Pirates

Makhaula featured 18 matches across all competitions last season for the Buccaneers. He did not start the season as he was recovering from a serious injury and it looked like he would be on the bench for the majority of the season, with Abdeslam Ouaddou preferring Sihle Ntuli in the middle of the park.

Ntuli’s long-term injury allowed Makhaula back into the team, and he played a huge role in helping Orlando Pirates win the league after 14 years.