Former Richards Bay FC midfielder Tlakusani Mthethwa has broken down the specific qualities that make rising star Sbangani Zulu a perfect fit for Orlando Pirates.
Zulu recently completed a high-profile transfer from the Natal Rich Boyz to the Soweto giants as teams ramp up preparations for the 2026/27 campaign. The 22-year-old centre-back earned his move to the Buccaneers following a breakout season in the Betway Premiership, where he anchored the KwaZulu-Natal side’s defense.
The versatile defender made 25 appearances across all competitions last season, chipping in with one assist and playing a pivotal role in helping Richards Bay finish 11th to secure top-flight survival.
Zulu hits Mayfair during a busy transfer window. Pirates have heavily reinforced their squad, bringing in the likes of Gamphani Lungu, Mthetheleli Mthiyane, Bohlale Ngwato, Neo Rapoo, and Matome Mmolai. Meanwhile, fellow new signing Aphiwe Baliti will head out to Siwelele FC on a season-long loan to gain regular first-team minutes.
WHAT MTHETHWA SAID ABOUT SBANGANI ZULU’S QUALITIES
As Sea Robbers fans eagerly await their first glimpse of the new recruits, Mthethwa believes Zulu’s composure, tactical versatility, and defensive grit will make him an instant asset under head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.
“First of all, I’d like to credit Richards Bay captain [Simphiwe Mcineka] because he was the leader guiding him at the back. Sometimes, as a senior player, you have to give young talent the room to shine, and Simphiwe did exactly that,” Mthethwa told FARPost.
“One thing about Sbangani is that he’s an incredible listener. He takes advice from his leaders, which makes it easy for him to excel. Off the pitch, he is incredibly humble. On it, he’s the complete package—excellent in one-on-one situations, dominant in the air, and completely comfortable passing with both his left and right foot.”
Mthethwa also highlighted Zulu’s adaptability, noting that his stint playing palying in the midfield gave him a unique edge.
“The fact that he was able to step into the midfield when I was absent actually helped him become even more comfortable on the ball. For a player with that kind of technical baseline, adjusting to a big club becomes much easier. I have no doubt he will do great things at Orlando Pirates.”
RELATED STORY: Ex-Swallows star Tlakusani Mthethwa breaks silence on Richards Bay departure