Betway Premiership champions Mamelodi Sundowns have made a major statement in the January transfer window by securing the signature of Monnapule Saleng from Orlando Pirates.
The Tshwane giants confirmed the unexpected move on Friday, announcing that the 27-year-old winger will join the star-studded Sundowns squad for the remainder of the 2025/26 season via their official social media platforms.
Saleng’s departure from Orlando Pirates comes after a turbulent spell at the Soweto giants.
Despite being one of the club’s standout performers in previous seasons, the winger reportedly fell out of favour with the technical team due to tactical disagreements and concerns over his consistency.
𝐌𝐎𝐍𝐍𝐀𝐏𝐔𝐋𝐄 𝐒𝐀𝐋𝐄𝐍𝐆 𝐉𝐎𝐈𝐍𝐒 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐘𝐄𝐋𝐋𝐎𝐖 𝐅𝐀𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐘 👆🏆
— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) January 9, 2026
𝘔𝘢𝘴𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘢𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘢 𝘪𝘴 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘸𝘦𝘭𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘥𝘧𝘪𝘦𝘭𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘔𝘰𝘯𝘯𝘢𝘱𝘶𝘭𝘦 𝘚𝘢𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘊𝘭𝘶𝘣! 𝘋𝘳𝘰𝘱 𝘢 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘵𝘰 𝘸𝘦𝘭𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘰𝘶𝘳… pic.twitter.com/IFyPC2wGde
Sources close to the situation indicated that Saleng was frustrated by limited game time and a lack of clarity regarding his role in the squad.
These issues ultimately led to his loan move to Orbit College at the start of the season, a decision aimed at giving him regular minutes and a fresh environment to regain form.
LOAN SPELL AT ORBIT COLLEGE
Saleng quickly made an impact at top-flight newcomers Orbit College.
In 11 league appearances, he scored two goals and provided three assists, showcasing his attacking prowess and creativity.
𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗𝗬 𝗧𝗢 𝗟𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧 𝗜𝗧 𝗨𝗣 🔥⚽️
— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) January 9, 2026
Masandawana, meet our latest arrival, Monnapule Saleng. Pace, power, and pure ambition as he joins the Home of the Champions. 🏆
Let the messages of support roll in ⬇️#Sundowns #WelcomeSaleng pic.twitter.com/SLlvSvFpVQ
Remarkably, despite being a loanee, Saleng was handed the captain’s armband at Orbit College, a testament to his leadership qualities and influence on the pitch.
WHAT SALENG BRINGS TO SUNDOWNS
Known for his blistering pace, direct runs, and ability to create chances, Saleng adds depth and versatility to Sundowns’ attacking options.
His arrival comes as the club continues its push for domestic dominance and continental success.