Orlando Pirates are set to make a major decision on the future of two defenders, Bandile Shandu and Olisa Ndah, in the coming months.
The duo have been missing in action in the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season under the guidance of head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. Ndah has been on the sidelines after sustaining a long-term injury in the first round of the previous season.
The Nigerian international has recently returned to full fitness and is training with the rest of the Pirates squad. The highly-rated defender could return to the matchday squad in the next few weeks, with Mbekezeli Mbokazi reportedly on his way to Chicago Fire in the Major League Soccer (MLS) on a deal worth over R50 million.
Mbokazi’s exit could see Ndah reclaim his place in the starting line-up at centre-back position. Last season, the 27-year-old featured in nine appearances across all competitions and scored one goal.
Meanwhile, Shandu has faced tough competition from Thabiso Lebitso and Deano Van Rooyen, who are sharing responsibilities in the right-back position in the current campaign.
OLISA NDAH AND BANDILE SHANDU’S CONTRACTS AT PIRATES ARE EXPIRING IN JUNE 2026
The former Maritzburg United utility player has registered four matches in all competitions early in the season before losing his place in the team.
With the current season reaching its halfway mark, Shandu and Ndah will have their future decided as their contracts are coming to an end in June 2026. The Buccaneers are yet to open talks with Ndah and Shandu for the possible renewal of contracts.
Olisa Ndah and Bandile Shandu will be looking to play a vital role in the remainder of the season as Pirates are chasing the elusive league title and other domestic trophies.
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