Orlando Pirates want to strengthen a relative area of weakness and that could be bad news for two established stars.
Pirates serious about signing Basadien
According to Soccer Laduma, the Sea Robbers are willing to offer Innocent Maela or Paseka Mako plus cash to sign Stellies’ in-demand left-back Fawaaz Basadien. The 27-year-old has been a mainstay down that flank for the Winelands club, and his form has seen him earn national team recognition. He has two goals and two assists from 10 Betway Prem appearances this term, a stellar output for a full-back.
“With Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns having so far failed to sign Stellenbosch FC and Bafana Bafana left-back Fawaaz Basadien, Orlando Pirates have a plan, and they have joined the scene with the aim of signing him,” the insider said.
“They could offload captain Innocent Maela together with Paseka Mako to get Basadien. They have come up with that strategy as they want to strengthen their left-back position in the quest to conquer both locally and in Africa, and that is why they want to move in for Basadien. So, that’s what is believed to be their plan for now to attract Basadien to Pirates.”
An additional insider added: “What they are looking at is to give Stellies one of the players that they would choose or like, or even both the left-backs, in exchange for Basadien, which will also include money. They would want to have Basadien and Deon Hotto as their main competitors in that left-back position. It’s a plan from Pirates as they are building a team that will sustain their success for a long time and they apparently feel Basadien fits in that plan.”
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New players spotted
Siyabonga Ndlozi and Yanga Madiba have been spotted training with the Bucs’ first team. It’s expected that both will play some part in the remainder of the campaign as Pirates challenge for silverware on several fronts. Who are these players?
Ndlozi is a 22-year-old attacker who can play across the front line in the wide areas. Meanwhile, Madiba is a promising left-back who’s seen as a natural successor to veterans Innocent Maela and Deon Hotto.
Fixtures
The Sea Robbers have six interesting tests on the horizon.
- Pirates vs Belouizdad: 12 January, 15:00
- Al Ahly vs Pirates: 18 January, 18:00
- Royal AM vs Pirates: 22 January, 19:30
- Pirates vs Kaizer Chiefs: 01 February, 15:30
- Sekhukhune vs Pirates: 05 February, 19:30
- Sundowns vs Pirates: 08 February, 15:30
Is Basadien the answer to Pirates’ left-back conundrum?
Orlando Pirates’ left-back position has been a topic of debate, with the club seeking to address depth and consistency in the role. The potential arrival of Fawaaz Basadien from Stellenbosch FC raises the question: is he the answer to their conundrum?
Basadien’s performances in the PSL have been impressive, showcasing his defensive solidity, pace, and ability to contribute offensively. His adaptability and energy could provide Pirates with the dynamism they need on the left flank. However, integrating him into a team with seasoned players like Paseka Mako and Deon Hotto will require careful management.
While his signing could signal a fresh approach, success will depend on how quickly he adapts to the high expectations and pressure of playing for one of South Africa’s top clubs.
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