Mamelodi Sundowns were the biggest movers of the January Premier Soccer League (PSL) transfer window. Elsewhere, there have been some notable signings at Kaizer Chiefs and SuperSport United.
Orlando Pirates, meanwhile, announced a notable departure shortly before the start of the transfer window. Centre-back Sandile Mthethwa chose to pursue more playing time at AmaZulu (495.63).
Sundowns vs. Pirates: The Contrast In PSL Title Contenders
Mamelodi Sundowns (1.12) and Orlando Pirates are the two teams competing for the top spot in the Premiership. Sundowns are favourites on Easybet with Pirates (5.44) close behind in the league standings. The January transfer window highlighted the contrast between the two clubs.
Masandawana spent heavily to bring in Jayden Adams, Keanu Cupido and Siyabonga Mabena. They also cut midfielder Matias Esquivel’s loan short and signed defender Lucas Suárez on a loan deal.
There were also some notable departures from Chloorkop. Thembinkosi Lorch’s move to Wydad Casablanca to play for his old coach, Rhulani Mokwena, was the one which made headlines. Rushine de Reuck’s loan departure to Maccabi Petah Tikva was another big move. De Reuck’s transfer may become permanent after a review in July.
Meanwhile, Orlando Pirates have opted to keep their squad small. The disadvantage is that they do not have the depth Masandawana do, but the advantage is that they can more easily create a tight-knit group.
SuperSport United’s Signings
Sundowns’ Tshwane rivals, SuperSport United, signed Lebohang Maboe on loan from their neighbours. It was not the only notable signing, as they also brought in former Kaizer Chiefs striker Samir Nurkovic.
However, Matsatsantsa has a long way to go to recover the magic from Gavin Hunt’s first stint in charge of the club. He is in charge again now, but competing with the budget of the top teams makes it very difficult to return to the top of the Premiership.
Kaizer Chiefs Make Moves
Meanwhile, Hunt and Nurkovic’s former club – Kaizer Chiefs – also had a fair amount of activity in the transfer window. Winger Makabi Lilepo, midfielder Thabo Cele and striker Tashreeq Morris have been brought in.
Amakhosi have signed their fair share of players over the years but regular coaching changes have meant that they have not put the pieces together to build a stable squad. Under Nasreddine Nabi, they have an opportunity to rebuild.
