Thalente Mbatha: Renowned SA Agent Backs Orlando Pirates Star to Play in Europe

• South African top football agent Mike Makaab has expressed confidence that his client, Orlando Pirates' Thalente Mbatha, has the potential to play in Europe
• Mbatha has been a key player for Pirates, impressing both fans and pundits since joining the Soweto giants on a permanent move from SuperSport United in 2024
• Makaab has encouraged Mbatha to continue improving his game, believing that the Bafana Bafana star has what it takes to make the move abroad, given his achievements with Pirates in a short period

South African top football agent Mike Makaab has tipped his client, Orlando Pirates' Thalente Mbatha, to have what it takes to play in Europe.

The South African international has been an important player for Orlando Pirates since joining the Soweto giants on a permanent move from SuperSport United in 2024.

He was part of the squad that won the MTN trophy at the start of the season and missed out on winning the Betway Premiership, Nedbank Cup (losing to Kaizer Chiefs in the final), and the CAF Champions League, where they were knocked out in the semi-final.

Makaab tips Mbatha to play in Europe

In an interview with iDiskiTimes, Makaab encouraged his client to improve his game, as he believes Mbatha has what it takes to play abroad after what he has achieved with Orlando Pirates in such a short time.

“Yes, I do believe he can play in Europe,” Mike Makaab told iDiski Times. “Thalente and I have spoken several times this week, he’s with the national team, as you know, and he’s happy at Pirates and working hard.

"But we've talked about the fact that he needs to push even harder. It’s not enough to simply arrive at this level and maintain it, he has to aim higher and elevate his game.

“There’s absolutely no doubt in my mind that he has the talent to play in Europe. He’s got an excellent passing range, he’s an intelligent player, and he covers a lot of ground, true box-to-box qualities. On top of that, he has a strong second-range shot.

“In tight matches, players who can score from outside the box often make the difference, and Thalente has that in his locker. So yes, the potential is there, but it all depends on him taking that next step, and that’s something we’ve been discussing.”

Makaab's submission about his client sparked different reactions from fans on social media.

Reactions as Makaab backs Mbatha for a move abroad

Oditweets said:

"One thing that sets @MikeMakaab apart from other agents is his relentless promotion of his players in the media—regardless of whether they’re in form or not, he makes sure they stay in the spotlight. He was also involved when we were pushing for Parker’s exit from Kaizer Chiefs."

KuthulaKhuluse shared:

"He lacks in most fundamental skills to be a good player and it’s down to poor or even lack of youth football development TIPS. Speed- hecan’t vary it as required but 70%👍🏾 Personality, the will to succeed hasn’t been demonstrated 50% - team player. Technique it should have been."

ThapeloMotsheg1 implied:

"A player who doesn't know how to pass a ball to his teammates can't go to Europe."

Gabriel Rimai reacted:

"Aiming higher is good challenge is consistently convectively influencing match,is he the first name on team list currently, his performance when selected weren't attractive l don't see him going anywhere, lucky to be still with pirates."

Thami YNWA Sithole commented:

"Needs to learn how to pass and not unnecessarily shoot and play a simple through ball to his attackers."

Mokwena reacts to Pirates rumours

Briefly News also reported that Rulani Mokwena has reacted to rumours linking him with a return to Orlando Pirates this summer.

The former Mamelodi Sundowns mentor and Pitso Mosimane are currently being linked with the vacant coaching role at the Soweto giants.

Source: Briefly News