Orbit College bank on Monnapule Saleng to lead Premiership charge

Orbit College is just weeks away from living their Premiership dream, and as they continue to bask in the glory of their promotion, they haven’t neglected bolstering their squad ahead of what promises to be the toughest campaign in the club’s history.

The Northwest-based outfit was rewarded for finishing second in the Motsepe Foundation Championship, five points behind champions Durban City.

While that achievement was monumental, it also ushered in a new chapter—one that demands more from every department, both on and off the pitch.

Orbit has shown steady progression in recent seasons. They ended the 2024/25 season in second place, just a year after finishing ninth. That rise speaks to the long-term work happening at the club, led by coach Pogiso Makhoye, who has played a key role in laying the foundation for their current success.

Though Makhoye has previously stated that the club won’t make wholesale changes, they’ve still brought in a number of new faces to help manage the transition to the top tier. The standout name is Monnapule Saleng, who joins on loan from Orlando Pirates. Saleng returns to the club where he made his name and is expected to play a leadership role among a relatively young squad.

Orbit also secured the services of Thuso Moleleki and Yanga Madiba—both also on loan—as they made the switch from the Buccaneers. Richards Bay’s Thato Mohlamme will bring experience from his time in the Premiership, while Yamkela Gamede arrives from Hungry Lions, and exciting prospect Lucky Mahlatsi joins from Leruma United.

Saleng’s return is more than just a tactical addition—it’s personal for both him and Makhoye, having previously worked together at the club before his move to the top flight.

“I’ve worked with him more than any other coach,” said Makhoye.

“I know how to get the best out of him. Being in a smaller team now will really help, because he brings belief to the young players we have.”

“He left the team as a youngster and comes back as a leader. He carried a big team before, and I believe he can carry us now. He brings excitement, experience, and exactly what we need to help us stay in the league.”

Saleng was on the fringes at Pirates last season but is expected to benefit from the familiar environment as he aims for a more regular return to competitive football.

“Mentally he’s in a good space because he’s happy to be home,” Makhoye added.

“He wants to enjoy football again and fight his way back into the national team. He wants to help us avoid relegation and be part of something meaningful.”

Makhoye also credits their solid relationship with Pirates as key to securing Saleng’s return and the other quality additions to his side.

“Having the relationship with Pirates helped us to bring him back, and with the relationship we have, it will be easier for him to acclimatise because he is going to an environment where he knows the coach and the players.”