As the highly anticipated Soweto Derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs approaches, many Buccaneers supporters are left wondering why their club did not make any new signings during the recently concluded January transfer window. The expectations were high, with names like Oswin Appollis and Thato Khiba strongly linked to a move to Mayfair. However, as the window slammed shut, no new players arrived, leaving fans questioning the club’s transfer strategy.
Head coach Jose Riveiro has now provided clarity on why Orlando Pirates opted to remain inactive in the market, despite persistent speculation. In an in-depth discussion, the Spanish tactician shed light on the club’s transfer policy, squad depth, and long-term vision, offering insights into why the Buccaneers did not reinforce their squad before facing their arch-rivals.
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Why Orlando Pirates Did Not Sign New Players in January
For weeks, Pirates fans had been expecting at least one big-name arrival to bolster their squad for the remainder of the 2023/24 PSL season. The club had been linked with Marumo Gallants’ Thato Khiba and Polokwane City’s Oswin Appollis, two players seen as potential game-changers for the Buccaneers. However, neither move materialized.
Jose Riveiro, speaking candidly, explained that while there was interest in certain players, securing the right targets at the right price proved challenging.
“We are always looking to improve the squad, but we are not a club that makes signings just for the sake of it,” said Riveiro. “If a player is not the right fit, either tactically or financially, we won’t force a deal. January is a tricky time to do business, and we did not want to disrupt the balance of the squad unless we found the perfect addition.”
The Challenges of the January Transfer Window
One of the biggest factors that influenced Pirates’ decision to hold off on new signings was the difficulty of negotiating transfers in January. Mid-season transfers are often complicated, with clubs reluctant to sell their key players, and when they do, they demand inflated prices.
“The January market is different from the off-season window,” Riveiro noted. “Teams are in the middle of their campaigns, and they don’t want to lose important players unless they are forced to. This makes it harder to sign the right player at the right time.”
The Buccaneers were reportedly in talks with Polokwane City for Oswin Appollis, a talented young winger who has impressed in the DStv Premiership. However, Polokwane City were unwilling to let him go cheaply, with sources suggesting they demanded a high transfer fee for their prized asset.
Similarly, Thato Khiba, a highly rated defensive midfielder, was on Pirates’ radar, but Marumo Gallants were reluctant to sell him mid-season. Given these obstacles, Pirates opted against rushing into deals that could have long-term financial implications for the club.
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Squad Depth and Competition for Places
Another key reason why Pirates did not bring in new players was the club’s strong squad depth. Riveiro believes that the Buccaneers already have a competitive squad, and adding new players unnecessarily could have disrupted the team’s balance.
“We have a very strong group of players,” he said. “When you look at our squad, we have quality in every position. If we bring in new players, it must be because they are better than what we already have, and in January, that’s difficult to find.”
Pirates boast one of the deepest squads in South African football, with talented midfielders and forwards already competing for places. Players like Monnapule Saleng, Patrick Maswanganyi, Miguel Timm, and Thalente Mbatha have all stepped up this season, making it harder for any new arrival to immediately secure a starting spot.
“We have seen many of our players step up this season,” Riveiro continued. “Monnapule Saleng has been fantastic, and our midfield has been strong. Bringing in players without a clear role would not have been fair to the squad we already have.”
The Importance of Stability Before the Soweto Derby
With the Soweto Derby looming, Pirates’ decision to stick with their current squad could actually be an advantage. Making mid-season signings often means new players need time to settle, which can disrupt team chemistry.
Riveiro emphasized the importance of continuity and stability before such a crucial fixture.
“We are going into a massive game against Kaizer Chiefs,” he said. “The players we have understand our system and tactics. Bringing in new players at this stage might have disrupted that. We trust the group we have, and I believe we are prepared to compete at the highest level.”
The Buccaneers have been building momentum, and rather than bringing in new faces, Riveiro has chosen to focus on refining his existing squad, ensuring they are mentally and physically ready for the Soweto Derby.
Long-Term Vision: Looking Beyond January
While Pirates did not sign anyone in January, this does not mean they are not planning for the future. Riveiro hinted that the club is already working on long-term transfer strategies, ensuring that when they do make signings, they will be impactful and strategic.
“Transfers are not just about reacting to the moment,” he explained. “We must plan ahead. We are always scouting and evaluating players, and when the right opportunity comes, we will move.”
It is believed that Pirates are already preparing for the next transfer window, with plans to strengthen in areas where they feel reinforcements will be needed for the 2024/25 season.
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Fans’ Reaction: Mixed Feelings on No New Signings
Orlando Pirates fans have had mixed reactions to the club’s lack of transfer activity. Some believe that the current squad is strong enough, while others feel that missing out on targets like Oswin Appollis and Thato Khiba could hurt the team’s title ambitions.
Fan Reactions on Social Media:
- “We have enough quality in the squad. No need for panic buys. Let’s focus on the Soweto Derby!”
- “Disappointed we didn’t get Appollis. We need more attacking options!”
- “January signings don’t always work out. Trusting the process under Riveiro.”
- “Other teams are strengthening, but we’re standing still. Hope this doesn’t cost us!”
While some fans are concerned, others are backing Riveiro’s decision, trusting that the club will make the right moves in the next transfer window.
Conclusion: A Calculated Approach by Orlando Pirates
Despite the expectations and speculation, Orlando Pirates’ decision to avoid making signings in January was a strategic one. Riveiro and the club’s management prioritized squad stability, financial responsibility, and long-term planning over making rushed moves in a difficult market.
With the Soweto Derby around the corner, Pirates will now rely on their current squad to step up and prove that new signings were not necessary. While missing out on targets like Oswin Appollis and Thato Khiba may have disappointed some fans, Riveiro remains confident that the Buccaneers are fully equipped to compete at the highest level.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Orlando Pirates to see if their decision to hold off on transfers was the right one—or if they will regret not strengthening their squad when the next transfer window opens.
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