Rulani Mokwena has confirmed he advised Sipho Mbule to join Orlando Pirates at the start of the 2025-26 season, a decision he firmly believes was the right one for the player's career. Speaking at a digital press conference this week, the now Pyramids FC coach reflected on a choice that helped deliver a historic treble to the Buccaneers.
"For many years I grew up in Orlando West, grew up watching Orlando Pirates as a kid," Mokwena said, explaining his deep personal connection. He was educated about the club's culture by chairman Dr Irvin Khoza and had previously coached Mbule at Mamelodi Sundowns before his own move to North African football. Mokwena stated that when Mbule asked for his opinion on the potential transfer, he gave it freely, but stressed the final decision was always the player's own.
Mokwena on Pirates' spiritual identity and Mbule's fit
Mokwena framed the advice within his understanding of what makes Orlando Pirates unique. He described it as a "very spiritual club" where the football gods at Orlando Stadium "open their hearts" for certain types of players. He argued that the players cherished by Kaizer Chiefs or Mamelodi Sundowns supporters are different from those appreciated by the Pirates faithful. The fans, he said, pay to watch entertainers and creators.
He referenced a specific area of the stadium near the grandstand where flair players like Steve Lekoelea and Thabo Rakhale used to operate, suggesting that is the space for talents like Mbule. Mokwena praised the midfielder's natural ability, ball control, and flair to "make solutions," calling the 'X' factor he brought key to the club's success last season. That campaign saw Orlando Pirates complete a domestic treble and unseat Mamelodi Sundowns as league champions, ending their eight-year reign.
Addressing other interest and current context
The coach also addressed speculation about rival interest at the time, stating he was not aware of other clubs pursuing Mbule and that the player never mentioned an offer from Kaizer Chiefs. This reinforces the narrative that Mbule's move to Pirates was a deliberate choice aligned with footballing identity rather than a financial bidding war.
That identity continues to drive success. Orlando Pirates currently sit second in the Premier Soccer League with 19 points from seven games, just one point behind leaders Sundowns. Their form reads four wins and a draw from the last five, a run that includes a 2-0 victory over Marumo Gallants in their most recent outing.
With 16 goals scored and only one conceded this season, the team is in a strong position as they prepare for their next challenge. They host TS Galaxy at Orlando Stadium on 18 October, aiming to close the gap at the top. The full schedule ahead is available on our fixtures page. Mokwena's reflections come as the full squad, unbeaten in seven league matches, looks to build on the legacy that players like Sipho Mbule helped to create.
Further reading: timeslive.co.za
