Appollis signing gives Pirates fresh firepower and versatality amid uncertainty surrounding Mofokeng

Orlando Pirates may have just pulled off one of their smartest moves yet. By securing the signature of Oswin Appollis, the Sea Robbers are not merely adding depth — they’re future-proofing their squad at a time when one of their brightest stars, Relebohile Mofokeng, seems destined for even bigger things.

Mofokeng, just 20, has become the heartbeat of the Buccaneers over the last two seasons. The highly rated youngster has already drawn interest from overseas clubs, and after undergoing a trial with English side Wolverhampton Wanderers, a major move abroad feels inevitable.

His dazzling footwork, fearless approach, and maturity beyond his years have made him one of South Africa’s most exciting exports-in-waiting. His consistent performances suggest he is nearly ready to test himself among the world’s elite. It may not be this coming season, but that next step looms large on the horizon.

That’s precisely where Appollis fits into the puzzle so seamlessly.

At 23, he joins the Soweto giants not merely as cover, but as a serious contender for the left-wing role that his Bafana Bafana teammate has made his own. Should Mofokeng eventually make the leap overseas,

Pirates will already have a ready-made replacement in their ranks. And if he stays a little longer?

The Buccaneers could boast one of the most electric left-sided duos in the league — a luxury few coaches would turn down.

Appollis has long been tipped for a step up. After an impressive spell with Polokwane City, where he helped transform the Limpopo outfit into one of the Premiership’s more consistent performers in recent seasons, a move to a big club felt overdue.

Now a regular in Hugo Broos’ national squad and fresh off a strong AFCON campaign — where South Africa finished third — Appollis arrives with both pedigree and promise. He has also played a pivotal role in South Africa’s 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifying run, where Bafana currently top their group.

His numbers — 66 matches, nine goals, and six assists — barely begin to tell the story.

More than statistics, it’s his tactical versatility, explosive pace, and tireless work rate that are likely to excite new Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. The Moroccan tactician now has a creative wildcard who can be deployed across multiple attacking roles.

Ouaddou will get an early look at his reshaped squad during Pirates’ upcoming pre-season tour of Spain. The Buccaneers are set to face English League One side Bolton Wanderers, followed by matches against Cypriot outfit Pafos FC and Spanish club Las Palmas.

It’s a pivotal moment for Ouaddou, who takes charge of a squad in the midst of a serious overhaul. With nine new signings already secured, competition for places will be intense. That internal pressure could be exactly what’s needed to elevate Pirates from title contenders to champions.

However, with such an influx of talent, changes are inevitable. Some players may be heading for the exit, and while no formal announcements have been made, departures are expected in the coming weeks. Only those who rise to the challenge will survive what’s shaping up to be an exciting and defining period at the Buccaneers’ camp.