The Real Reason Behind Monnapule Saleng’s Release from Bafana Bafana

• Despite a solid performance in the CHAN first-leg qualifier against Egypt, Monnapule Saleng was released from the Bafana Bafana squad
• Bafana Bafana coach Molefi Ntseki made strategic changes to the squad, bringing in fresh players like Victor Letsoalo, Mondli Mpoto, and Levy Mashiane
• Fans have mixed reactions to Saleng’s release, with some expressing sympathy for his personal struggles

Despite being away from action for three months, Orlando Pirates winger Monnapule Saleng made a notable return during the CHAN first-leg qualifier against Egypt, contributing significantly to the 1-1 draw at the Free State Stadium on Sunday.

However, Saleng was among four players released from the squad, including teammates Azola Tshobeni, Kaizer Chiefs' Naledi Hlongwane, and Golden Arrows' Nduduzo Mhlongo.

The decision came shortly after the match, with the squad needing to adjust for the upcoming return leg in Cairo.

The Real Reason for Saleng’s Release

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Saleng’s release wasn’t due to his performance, but rather logistical and personal reasons.

Ahead of the match, Saleng had not been training with Orlando Pirates and was home in Boitumelong township in Bloemhof.

He drove to join the squad in Bloemfontein just before the game, and after the match, Bafana Bafana returned by road to Gauteng to prepare for the second leg.

However, Saleng did not join the team in Johannesburg as planned.

The squad arrived in the city on Monday, and with departure set for Thursday, Saleng had still not linked up with them by Wednesday afternoon.

As a result, Saleng was excluded from the travelling squad for the second leg.

Mental Health and Personal Struggles

A source close to Saleng revealed that the player had been

He’s struggling. He’s not taking this Pirates thing well. Mentally, he’s not in the best place.

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The source explained.

These personal struggles may have influenced his performance and contributed to his absence from the squad.

It's fair he must return to his work where he's employed and paid."

GM sky:

What if Ntseki was instructed to release Saleng. 😭😭😭"

Cas music:

So the other ones that were dropped also, was it because of the situation at Pirates?

Ata wa:

Bring Saleng to Naturena maan, he will be the best Saleng we know."

Julius:

Hae Saleng, I really feel sorry for him. Football is a short career to mess with. One thing, Pirates will always be Pirates, but where will he be?"

De rossi:

Something is wrong with that guy, especially from family.

Madoka Junior:

Thought he was going to Pirates 😔 Am no Pirates fan, but that guy can play football.

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How Saleng’s woes began

After scoring five goals in 13 outings this season, including a decisive strike in the MTN8 final, Saleng last played for Orlando Pirates on December 7, 2024, against Al Ahly in the CAF Champions League.

There were reports that the Bafana Bafana star felt underpaid at Pirates after his MTN8 heroics as his contract, originally set to expire in June 2025, was extended by two years in early March.

It is believed that Pirates made to this move to avoid losing him for free. However, the extension didn’t resolve Saleng's discontent.

According to his parents - Thabo and Makie Tsoeu, in an interview with Sunday World on March 2, their son was “battling depression,” exacerbated by wages he believes don’t match his contributions.

Marawa gives Pirates ultimatum to clarify Saleng's situation

Renowned South African journalist Robert Marawa had issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Orlando Pirates over Saleng's situation at the club or he will break the story to the general public on what's the problem.

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The popular journalist while reacting to a follower's comment on his handle on X claimed he has the true story of what's going on between the South African forward and the Soweto giants.

“We have the story but giving the Club 48 hours to address their fans on the matter. Otherwise, we will,” Marawa said on a post X.

Monnapule Saleng's Struggles with Mental Health

Briefly News previously reported that Orlando Pirates star Monnapule Saleng is struggling with depression, worsened by his dissatisfaction with the club.

Saleng feels underpaid, believing his contributions on the field are not properly reflected in his compensation.

His parents, Thabo and Makie Tsoeu, have expressed deep concern about their son's emotional well-being and his desire to leave the club.

Nomso Obiajuru was a contributing writer in this article

Source: Briefly News