Orlando Pirates FC's Sipho Mbule has made a surprising move to Iraqi side Zakho SC. The former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder parted ways with the Premier Soccer League giants at the end of the 2025-26 season.

What happened?

Sipho Mbule joined Orlando Pirates FC on a free transfer last summer and was an important player for Abdeslam Ouaddou at the beginning of the season. He was part of the squad that represented South Africa at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Why it matters for Orlando Pirates FC

Football analyst Themba Modise shared his thoughts on Mbule's move away from the Premier Soccer League and move to Iraq. "Mbule's move to Iraq came as a surprise to me, especially, maybe the incentives are so good to be turned down, but aside from that, I don't think going to a nation like Iraq to play club football when you still have a good time to play in the PSL."

Current context

As of 29 Jun 2026, Orlando Pirates FC is leading the Premier Soccer League with 69 points from 30 games, having scored 58 goals and conceded 12. The team is 1 point clear of Mamelodi Sundowns.

CategoryValue
League standing1st in Premier Soccer League
Goals this season58 scored, 12 conceded
Lead at the top1 point clear of Mamelodi Sundowns

Modise suggested that Mbule should have considered joining clubs in other African countries or neighboring nations to South Africa, where he could still be monitored by coaches and fans.