Renowned football analyst Junior Khanye believes that Sipho Mbule would have been a better signing for Orlando Pirates than Sihle Nduli.
Mbule, who is currently in the books of Mamelodi Sundowns will become a free agent at the end of June.
Meanwhile, Pirates are reported to have signed the talented Sihle Nduli from Stellenbosch FC.
Nduli, a 29-year-old defensive midfielder, made 44 appearances in all competitions for Stellenbosch during the 2024/25 season, but he scored only one goal and provided no assists.
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Khanye expresses doubts about Nduli's ability to control the midfield at Pirates.
"Sihle Nduli was in the right place at Stellenbosch, he was their best player and I think he was good for them," Khanye tells KickOff.
"At Stellenbosch, there was less pressure and the environment suited him. He could have had a wonderful career there and even captained the team at one point.
"Nduli is a top-notch player, but moving to Pirates, one of the biggest clubs in South Africa, will only invite pressure on him. Personally, I would have preferred to see him progress for two or three more seasons at Stellenbosch. The players he was with there complemented his style of play. Pirates do need a number 6 and a central attacking midfielder.
"For me, Mbule's off-the-pitch behaviour shouldn't be a barrier for clubs wanting to sign good players. Pirates should have engaged with Mbule to address any issues. They could introduce specific protocols and conditions in his contract to manage his behaviour.
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"I'm not advocating what Mbule did; in fact, it was unacceptable. However, people love him, and he has disappointed many with his actions. Pirates is a high-profile team that typically does not tolerate such behaviour, but I still believe he would have been a valuable signing for them. If not Mbule, then they should have gone after Neo Maema or Siphelele Mkhulise.
"Nowadays in South Africa, players with good behaviour tend to get more playing time, even if their skills are lacking. It's about being well-behaved, which allows you to play week in and week out, even if you struggle with basic skills.
"Yes, Nduli understands the game, but to play for Pirates, you need character and personality. You need to be like Sipho Mbule, you will not find another player like him in South Africa."
