Orlando Pirates stars leading list of transfers already justifying the investment

The 2025/26 Betway Premier League season has already delivered its share of surprises. As the campaign pauses for the Fifa international break, the stage is set for another thrilling season ahead.

Sekhukhune United and Kaizer Chiefs have set the early pace and remain two of only three unbeaten sides, with Mamelodi Sundowns sitting close behind in third place, just two points off the leaders.

The Brazilians once again entered the season as the team to beat, having set the benchmark for close to a decade. With rivals desperate to end their eight-year dominance, many of them wasted no time strengthening in the transfer market. The opening weeks have put these new recruits under the spotlight, testing whether they can justify the investment.

With five rounds of fixtures now complete, and maybe with some MTN8 performances to add, here are five signings who have already hit the ground running.

Kamogelo Sebelebele

Arguably the standout of the lot, the former TS Galaxy midfielder has been instrumental in helping Orlando Pirates recover after back-to-back league defeats to Sekhukhune (1-0) and Marumo Gallants (2-1).

Sebelebele responded with three crucial goals in consecutive matches, including a goal in each leg against Sundowns in the MTN8 semi-finals. What makes his impact more remarkable is that he was among the signings least expected to deliver this soon in a Pirates jersey.

His versatility has also been a major asset, comfortably operating from right-back to right wing, giving his coach valuable tactical options.

Bradley Grobler

Sekhukhune United’s new striker has wasted no time proving his worth, scoring four goals across all competitions. At 37, Grobler continues to show why he is regarded as one of the finest finishers in the country, and why his new coach Eric Tinkler lured him away from SuperSport United.

With Babina Noko eyeing a return to continental football, Grobler’s experience and scoring instincts will be vital — provided he can stay fit throughout the campaign.

Lebone Seema

Another germ from TS Galaxy to Pirates, the defender has slotted in seamlessly at the Buccaneers, addressing a problem area where the club struggled with depth last season due to injuries.

Seema has already impressed at both ends of the pitch, scoring a contender for goal of the season in a 1-0 win over Orbit College, while also bringing composure and solidity to the backline. At just 24, he looks a shrewd long-term acquisition.

Sihle Nduli

Arriving from Stellenbosch FC, the midfielder has quickly become an essential part of Pirates’ engine room. His tireless, workmanlike performances have filled the void left by Makhehlene Makaula, last season’s midfielder of the year, who has been sidelined by injury.

Nduli’s seamless integration suggests he will be one of coach Abdeslam Ouaddou’s most trusted players this season.

Thabiso Monyane

In search of more regular minutes, the former Pirates defender made the switch to the Glamour Boys, and the move has paid off handsomely.

Chiefs’ backline has lacked consistency in recent seasons, but Monyane has played a central role in their defensive improvement during the opening fixtures. Injury-free and confident, he looks set to establish himself as a key figure in Naturena this season.