Oupa Manyisa’s thoughts on Pirates releasing Makaringe and Monare
Former Orlando Pirates captain Oupa Manyisa has shared his thoughts after the club decided to release midfielders Fortune Makaringe and Thabang Monare last week.
Makaringe and Morane were among the stars whose contracts were expiring, and Pirates opted not to extend their deals.
Other players that were released by the Soweto giants include strikers Souaibou Marou and Kermit Erasmus, and goalkeepers Richard Ofori and Siyabonga Mpontshane. In addition, assistant coach Sergio Almenara left his post after a mutual agreement due to family issues.
Makaringe spent five seasons with the Soweto giants after joining the club ahead of the 2019/20 season from Maritzburg United. During his stay, the attacking midfielder made 147 appearances in all competitions, scored 10 goals and provided nine assists.
As for Monare, he linked up with the Bucs ahead of the 2020/21 campaign from now-defunct Bidvest Wits. ‘Dash’ played 93 matches, hit the target once and grabbed two assists.
The two players helped the Happy People to win five trophies: three MTN8 titles and two Nedbank Cup trophies.
OUPA MANYISA ON FORTUNE MAKARINGE AND THABANG MONARE LEAVING PIRATES
Speaking to FARPost, Manyisa says it was a shocker to see Makaringe and Monare part ways with Pirates because of their quality.
However, he’s aware that Pirates are a big institution and that to survive, one should play regularly. Both Makaringe and Monare struggled for game time in the just-ended season, making 10 and 11 appearances, respectively.
“It’s so unfortunate [for Makaringe and Monare] when you are playing at a team like Orlando Pirates, and it’s time to leave,” said Manyisa.
“Basically, you have to play to stay there and to hold on, and at the end of the day, you have to play football.
“They [Pirates] are trying to continue with other players that they have in the squad. But it came as a shocker when they were to leave the club.”
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