Monnapule Saleng Struggling for Form at Orbit College as Coach Questions Impact

• Orlando Pirates loanee Monnapule Saleng has struggled for form at his new club, Orbit College, a few games into the season
• Pogiso Makhonye spoke to Metro FM and explained that Saleng’s performances had not met the level they expected
• The winger was handed the captaincy on arrival at Orbit, and, according to the coach, the responsibility weighed him down

Orbit College coach Pogiso Makhonye has admitted that Monnapule Saleng has yet to live up to expectations since joining the team on loan from Orlando Pirates, raising questions about the winger’s impact on the squad.

Saleng’s move to Orbit was widely seen as an opportunity to revive his career. Makhonye had initially backed the winger publicly, even handing him the captain’s armband upon arrival in a show of confidence.

What did Makhonye say about Saleng's performance?

However, speaking on Metro FM’s Sports Night Amplified with Andile Ncube, Makhonye suggested Saleng’s performances have been underwhelming and hinted at potential changes.

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“So far, I think he’s not given us what we expected from him as a big player. A player who comes in with a big name, those are the things you need to assess as a team. Are we playing better when he’s in the team or when he’s not?" Makhonye said.

As seen in the tweet below:

The coach emphasised the need for Saleng to step up, pointing out the team’s strong performance when everyone was working collectively.

“That’s the mentality we need. You must lead us as a big player. The weight is on him. When he’s not in the field, everyone gives 110%, but when he is, they tend to rely on him to lead," Makhonye added.

Watch the clip below:

Saleng's captaincy a huge responsible for him

Makhonye also reflected on his decision to hand Saleng the captaincy, admitting it may have been premature given the player’s limited game time at Pirates.

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“I’m not rethinking the decision, but we have to acknowledge these boys have been playing without a big name, and now he’s here. We need to accommodate him and support him,” he explained.

“Maybe we gave him too much responsibility too soon.”

Saleng now faces the challenge of rediscovering his form and proving his worth as Orbit prepares for a series of crucial fixtures in the coming weeks.

Monnapule Saleng’s Orlando Pirates struggles

Briefly News previously reported that Saleng has been grappling with depression, a situation reportedly worsened by tensions at Orlando Pirates.

Sources close to the club suggest the winger feels undervalued, particularly when it comes to his salary, which he reportedly believes does not match his contributions on the field.

The 26-year-old had not featured for the Buccaneers since December last year in a CAF Champions League clash against Egyptian giants Al Ahly.

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Nkota joins a new club from Pirates

Briefly News also reported that Mohau Nkota has left Orlando Pirates to join a new club in the Saudi Professional League.

The South African youngster reportedly signed a three-year contract with his new club in the Middle East.

Source: Briefly News