Mariko back at Orlando Pirates from Chippa United

Abdoulaye Mariko Picture by ENK Sports

Malian midfielder Abdoulaye Mariko has returned to Orlando Pirates after cutting short his loan stint at Betway Premiership side Chippa United.

The 23-year-old joined the Buccaneers before the start of the season from Djoliba AC, together with compatriot and namesake Abdoulaye Mariko. He was immediately loaned out to the Chilli Boys for the 2025/26 season, but he is back training with the Soweto giants.

The time spent at Chippa appeared difficult for the player after managing just two appearances for the Gqeberha outfit, both being Betway Premiership matches. The midfielder becomes another import to leave Chippa recently after Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali had his contract terminated by mutual consent, while DR Congo international Nathan Fasika left for Libya.

Mariko is now back at Pirates where he will be trying to muscle his way into coach Abdeslam Ouaddou’s plans. As observed by FARPost at Rand Stadium on Monday, the player was part of the group training under the watchful eye of the Moroccan coach.

MARIKO’S BATTLE TO CONVINCE OUADDOU IN A STACKED PIRATES MIDFIELD

The Buccaneers tactician will be trying to accommodate Mariko in a squad that already has high-performing defensive linkmen like Makhehlene Makhaula and Sihle Nduli who is currently injured.

The Malian can also play in central midfield where his countryman, Thalente Mbatha, Sipho Mbule, Masindi Nemtajela and the rising Simphiwe Selepe provide more options.

But having returned to Pirates against the backdrop of an unsuccessful loan stint at Chippa might work against him. That would require him to convince Ouaddou not to read much into his unsuccessful time in Gqeberha.

On the other hand, his return could also make competition for a starting spot in midfield still in Ouaddou’s side. The former Fulham defender has already acknowledged the depth in his side as he rotates players as part of managing the fitness levels of his squad.

Mariko’s compatriot is already struggling for game time at Pirates. He has featured in eight games in all competitions so far and is yet to score or provide an assist.