Orlando Pirates have officially confirmed that they have acquired the services of Craig Martin and Ndumiso Mabena.
Martin joins the Soweto giants from Cape Town City.
According to the club’s statement, the wing-back will be joining the Sea Robbers in January after Bucs managed to reach an agreement with the Cape club “for an undisclosed fee.”
Yesterday, FARPost exclusively revealed the news of the 29-year-old footballer having sealed a move to Pirates.
Overall, Martin played 154 games, scored 14 goals and contributed 14 assists for the Citizens.
His stellar performances at City saw him receiving his first-ever Bafana Bafana call-up.
He made his international debut in June 2021 during their 3-2 win over Uganda in an international friendly.
Meanwhile, Mabena rejoins the Happy People having left the club in 2014 to join the now-defunct Platinum Stars.
He also had a stint with Bloemfontein Celtic and most recently Royal AM.
Mabena joins Pirates on a one-and-a-half-season deal.
FANS REACT…
One Fan tweeted: “Bad signings these guys are a bit old Martin is 30 and Mabena is over 30, would have loved to have Martin maybe two seasons ago.
The other said: “Struggling to see how this improves our squad quality! Martins was no longer a regular at City and is no better prospect than Jooste we released this very season! Mabena at 35 when a younger Makgopa has not even won a place ahead of newly signed Nga and Preprah doesn’t make sense.
Another added: “So captain Jele who is 35 was removed from the club when he accepted a salary cut, only to get another 35-year-old Mabena. This management sometimes it’s not making sure.
One football fanatic hit back: “I prefer Radio man over Mabena any time… Mabena caused me too much headache in his first stint. Welcome, Craig we are a little shot of depth on that right side.”
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