Saleng Signs for Sundowns After Pirates Exit
From Ezimnyama Ngenkane to Bafana ba Style, Monnapule Saleng has completed one of the most eye-catching moves of the January transfer window, joining defending Betway Premiership champions Mamelodi Sundowns in a blockbuster switch from rivals Orlando Pirates.
The Rustenburg-born winger’s arrival comes shortly after Sundowns secured Colombian attacker Brayan León from Independiente Medellín, underlining Masandawana’s intent to strengthen aggressively as the season reaches its decisive phase.
Saleng, 27, spent the first half of the campaign on loan at Orbit College, having fallen out of favour at Pirates following a glittering 2023 season. Under former head coach José Riveiro, he played a central role in a trophy-laden campaign, helping the Buccaneers lift the MTN8 and Nedbank Cup, while also claiming the DStv Premiership Players’ Player of the Season and MTN8 Last Man Standing awards at the PSL Awards.
His exit from Pirates was less celebratory. Saleng last featured for the Soweto giants in December 2024 during a CAF Champions League clash against Al Ahly, amid reports of contractual disagreements — claims later dismissed by his representatives. Across all competitions, Saleng registered 25 goals and 17 assists in 70 appearances for Pirates, winning five major trophies during his spell.
Sundowns, who trail log leaders Pirates by two points after 13 matches, see Saleng as a statement addition as they chase a ninth successive league title and reignite their push for continental glory following last season’s CAF Champions League final defeat to Pyramids FC.
Announcing the deal on social media, Sundowns wrote: “Masandawana, meet our latest arrival, Monnapule Saleng. Pace, power and pure ambition as he joins the Home of the Champions.”
The champions may not be finished yet. Sundowns are reportedly locked in a three-horse race with Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs for Puso Dithejane of TS Galaxy, while uncertainty also surrounds the future of Teboho Mokoena amid reported interest from Al Ahly.
With high-profile moves already confirmed and more potentially on the way, the January window is proving to be one of the most dramatic in recent PSL history — and Saleng’s switch to Chloorkop may yet prove to be its defining moment.