New Orlando Pirates signing Mthetheleli Mthiyane has given insight into the Buccaneers’ ongoing pre-season tour of Spain, pinpointing the key challenge facing the club ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
Mthiyane joined Pirates last month from Stellenbosch FC following his impressive breakout season in the Betway Premiership. The central midfielder had an impressive maiden season in SA’s top-flight with Stellies, earning a big move to Pirates.
Mthiyane arrived at Stellenbosch in July 2025 from the Motsepe Foundation Championship side, Milford FC. After signing with the Winelands-based side, the 25-year-old proved his qualities in the middle of the park, with his passing skills and defensive abilities.
In his first season with Stellenbosch, Mthiyane amassed 38 appearances across all competitions and scored one goal. He played a big role in helping the Western Cape outfit reach the 2025 MTN8 final, where they lost to Pirates.
Following his consistent performances, Mthiyane secured a move to the Soweto giants, entering a midfield department already stacked with quality. Mthiyane will compete with players such as Makhehlene Makhaula, Sihle Nduli, Simphiwe Selepe, and Thalente Mbatha, amongst others, for a starting line-up in the defensive midfield position.
WHAT MTHIYANE SAID ABOUT PIRATES’ PREPARATIONS FOR THE NEW SEASON
After joining Pirates, Mthiyane travelled with the club to Spain for their pre-season camp. The KZN-born talent has opened up on his first few days with the Ghosts, revealing that, as new players, they face the challenge of continuing where the team left off last season.
In the previous campaign, Pirates won a treble after lifting the Betway Premiership, MTN8 and the Carling Knockout Cup titles under head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.
“The pre-season is taking us out of the holidays, and we go back to work. And we are also under pressure [to perform,” Mthiyane told Pirates media.
“Last season, the guys did a very good job, and now it’s about maintaining the bar that they have set. So we keep pushing and working hard.”
Mthiyane signed with Pirates alongside other players such as Neo Rapoo, Gamphani Lungu, Sbangani Zulu, Bohlale Ngwato, and Matome Mmolai.
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