Orlando Pirates are ushering in a new era with Abdeslam Ouaddou set to appoint a new Bucs captain.

Orlando Pirates will look very different next season.

They have a new head coach in charge in Abdeslam Ouaddou. Furthermore, he is set to appoint a new Bucs captain following the departure of Innocent Maela.

Former club captain, Innocent Maela is one of the players who have left Pirates so far.

He followed Miguel Timm, Paseka Mako and Thabiso Monyane out the exit door at Mayfair.

Given the fact that he was the club captain, there is now a need for Ouaddou to appoint a new man to wear the coveted Bucs captaincy armband.

The front-runners are Nkosinathi Sibisi and Tapelo Xoki.

Both defenders have been solid at the back for Pirates for several seasons now. They lead on the field with their performances. Thus, putting them in the position for this coveted honour.

Furthermore, both defenders led Pirates during the 2024/25 season during Maela’s absence. Therefore, they are both well-positioned to take over the Bucs captaincy from Maela.

Pirates have signed a total of new players from the likes of Mamelodi Sundowns, PSL rivals, African giants as well as Bafana Bafana.

Whilst, a couple of big-name players are set to be unveiled by the Soweto giants.

Meanwhile, as mentioned, Bucs stars have left. Additionally, another Pirates players are heading out of Mayfair.

Stay tuned to The South African for all the latest Pirates player movements – signings and departures – as they happen.

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