Zakhele Lepasa’s future at Orlando Pirates: Will he stay or go?
As the 2024/2025 Premiership season approaches its halfway mark, speculation about Zakhele Lepasa’s future at Orlando Pirates intensifies. During the winter transfer window, numerous changes unfolded at the Buccaneers, with Lepasa frequently linked to a potential exit.
Lack of game time raises concerns
Lepasa has faced challenges securing game time this season, failing to appear in any official matches for Pirates so far. Reports indicated that the Bafana Bafana forward might not fit into coach Jose Riveiro’s plans. However, sources close to the club reveal a different narrative, asserting that the 27-year-old remains a vital part of the team.
“He is still in the plans and there has never been any talk of him leaving. It’s all been in the media, but the club didn’t have those plans,” the source stated. They emphasised Lepasa’s commitment and strong work ethic, attributing his limited opportunities to injury disruptions. “Like the coach previously said, it’s a selection issue as some players in his position have been doing well, and he will get his chance.”
Ahead of Pirates’ crucial CAF Champions League fixture against Jwaneng Galaxy of Botswana, the club confirmed that Lepasa is on the mend from an ankle injury. Fans remain hopeful that his recovery will pave the way for a return to form.
Richard Ofori joins AmaZulu
In a significant development, Orlando Pirates’ former goalkeeper Richard Ofori has signed with AmaZulu, seeking to reignite his career in the Premier Soccer League. Ofori left Pirates at the end of the 2023/2024 season after his contract expired without renewal. During his tenure at Pirates, he won three MTN8 trophies and two Nedbank Cup titles, making 58 appearances, achieving 29 clean sheets, and conceding only 35 goals.
Ofori joins AmaZulu as a free agent, where he will compete for a starting spot against Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Veli Mothwa and Olwethu Mzimela. This move marks an exciting new chapter for the Ghanaian as he aims to make a significant impact in his new role.
Stay tuned with The South African for more updates as the season progresses, Zakhele Lepasa’s future at Orlando Pirates remains uncertain, while Richard Ofori embarks on a new journey with AmaZulu. Both players are at crucial points in their careers, and fans will be watching closely to see how their stories unfold in the Premier Soccer League.
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