Orlando Pirates unveil new signings including Mabena

Orlando Pirates have announced the return of striker Ndumiso Mabena, who joins the club after parting ways with Royal AM.

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Pirates also confirmed the signing of Craig Martin, who joins the Buccaneers from Cape Town City on an undisclosed fee.

After leaving Thwihli Thwahla in September, Mabena was given a chance to train with Pirates, but it wasn’t clear if he was going to sign with the Buccaneers, who had already made a number of new signings for the 2022/23 DStv Premiership season.

Mgosi Squad later revealed that the 35-year-old had agreed on a short-term deal with Pirates. The club has now announced that the veteran forward Mabena has signed a one and a half-season deal.

“Orlando Pirates Football Club is pleased to announce the signing of Ndumiso Mabena and Craig Martin. Mabena returns to the place he called home between 2009 and 2014 before going on to play for Platinum Stars, Bloemfontein Celtic and then recently Royal AM. The 35 year old joins the Buccaneers on a one and a half season deal,” the Buccaneers wrote on the clubs website.

“Meanwhile, the flying wing back Craig Martin will be joining the Soweto Giants in January following an agreement between the Buccaneers and Cape Town City for an undisclosed fee. The 29 year old signed on the dotted line today for a two and a half season deal.”

The new Pirates signings will certainly add depth to coach Jose Riveiro’s squad, which has been struggling with a number of injuries this season.