Orlando Pirates
Orlando Pirates have sent their new midfielder Abdoulaye Mariko on a season-long loan to Chippa United, giving the Malian player a chance to gain match time in the Betway Premiership during the 2025/26 campaign.
Fresh Arrival Heads Straight to Loan Spell
Abdoulaye S Mariko, a strong central midfielder known for his energy in the middle of the park, only joined Orlando Pirates a short while ago from Djoliba in the Malian Premier Division. He put pen to paper on a two-year deal with the Buccaneers during the recent off-season, marking him as one of their latest additions. But in a quick twist, Pirates chose to loan him out to Chippa United right away, helping him settle into South African football with regular play. The 24-year-old has already landed in Gqeberha to wrap up the move and link up with his new teammates.
This step fits into a long-running swap of players between the two clubs. Over the years, Pirates have picked up talents like Paseka Mako, Linda Mntambo, Bienvenu Eva Nga, Thabiso Lebitso, and Sinoxolo Kwayiba from Chippa. In return, Chippa often gets experienced or young stars on loan from the Soweto giants to boost their squad. Just this window, Chippa let go of their standout performer Kwayiba to Pirates, where he slots in with other fresh faces such as Sipho Mbule, Sihle Nduli, Yanela Mbuthuma, Tshepho Mashiloane, Nkosikhona Ndaba, Masindi Nemtajela, Oswin Appollis, and Tshepang Moremi.
Building Experience in the Premiership
Mariko’s loan aims to give him valuable minutes on the pitch, something that might be hard to come by at Pirates with their deep lineup. At Chippa, he will work under new head coach Sinethemba Badela, who took over last month after time as an assistant to Rulani Mokwena at Wydad Casablanca in Morocco. Badela stepped in for Thabo September, bringing fresh ideas to the Chilli Boys as they gear up for the season. The club also named Sinesipho Mali as their new sporting director; he came from scouting at Kaizer Chiefs and a stint at Sekhukhune United.
The Malian brings a solid background from his home league, where he shone as a key player for Djoliba. Fans hope his drive and skills will help Chippa push up the table after a mixed run last term. Kwayiba, who moved the other way, had a strong year with seven goals and an assist in 28 games, showing the kind of impact Chippa expects from new arrivals.
Part of a Bigger Loan Package
Mariko is not the only Pirate heading to Chippa on loan. The Eastern Cape side has also snapped up Goodman Mosele and Azola Tshobeni from Orlando Pirates on similar deals. Mosele, a 25-year-old known for his smooth play, joins after time with the Buccaneers, while young Tshobeni looks to build his career. This trio could give Chippa a real lift in midfield, blending youth and know-how.
Pirates boss Jose Riveiro has spoken before about using loans to grow talent, and this fits that plan. With a busy season ahead, including league games and cup runs, the club wants their players sharp and ready when called back.
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