Orlando Pirates have decided against extending Sipho Mbule’s contract, bringing the talented midfielder’s stay at the club to an end after just one season, FARPost has learnt.
The Buccaneers have opted not to exercise their option to retain the midfielder beyond June, making Mbule a free agent ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Mbule’s future at Pirates has been the subject of speculation in recent weeks following his loss of favour in the second half of the campaign. The 28-year-old joined Pirates in July 2025 on a free transfer after his contract with Mamelodi Sundowns expired.
In the opening months of his spell at the Soweto giants, Mbule established himself as an influential figure under head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. He played a key role as Pirates lifted both the MTN8 and the Carling Knockout Cup.
His impressive form also earned him a recall to the Bafana Bafana squad under Hugo Broos, and he was included in South Africa’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations [AFCON] in Morocco.
WHY ORLANDO PIRATES DECIDED AGAINST EXTENDING MBULE’S CONTRACT
Following the AFCON tournament, in which South Africa exited in the Round of 16, Mbule struggled to secure regular game time at Pirates.
Competition for places in midfield intensified, with Thalente Mbatha, Masindi Nemtajela and Makhehlene Makhaula emerging as the preferred options in the centre of the park. As a result, Mbule found opportunities limited in the latter stages of the season, despite making 23 appearances across all competitions and scoring one goal.
The former SuperSport United midfielder now leaves Pirates as a free agent, making him eligible to negotiate with clubs of his choice.
A source close to the situation has confirmed that Pirates have informed Mbule of their decision not to extend his stay at the club. However, the talented midfielder is unlikely to be short of suitors ahead of the new season.
And with the transfer window approaching, Siwelele FC have already made their interest known to the player, as first reported by FARPost. The Bloemfontein-based side is understood to have communicated its desire to bring the former Sundowns and SuperSport United playmaker on board.
Mbule’s experience, which includes three Betway Premiership titles, two MTN8 crowns and international recognition with Bafana Bafana, makes him an attractive option for clubs looking to strengthen their midfield ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
While Siwelele FC are among the clubs monitoring his situation, Mbule is expected to attract further interest from both local and international teams following his Bucs exit.
RELATED STORY: Sipho Mbule on Siwelele FC radar as Orlando Pirates future hangs in the balance