Orlando Pirates’ Mthetheleli Mthiyane reveals biggest challenge during Spain pre-season camp
The countdown to the new Betway Premiership season has begun, but for Orlando Pirates, success will not be built on talent alone.
Instead, new signing Mthetheleli Mthiyane believes the club’s biggest task during its pre-season training camp in Spain is forging unity, trust and understanding among a squad packed with both established stars and fresh arrivals.
The Buccaneers have entered a new chapter ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, and while expectations remain sky high after another impressive season, Mthiyane insists the focus is firmly on building the chemistry needed to compete for silverware from the opening whistle.
The 25-year-old central midfielder joined Pirates from Stellenbosch FC last month following a breakthrough campaign that established him as one of the Betway Premiership’s standout midfielders.
Mthiyane only arrived at Stellenbosch in July 2025 from Motsepe Foundation Championship outfit Milford FC, but wasted little time making his mark. His composure on the ball, intelligent passing and defensive discipline quickly turned him into a key figure for the Cape Winelands club.
During his only season with Stellenbosch, Mthiyane made 38 appearances across all competitions, scored once and played a crucial role in helping the club reach the 2025 MTN8 final, where they were beaten by Orlando Pirates.
That impressive run earned him a move to Soweto, where competition for places is expected to be fierce.
Pirates boast a midfield filled with proven quality, including Makhehlene Makhaula, Sihle Nduli, Simphiwe Selepe and Thalente Mbatha, meaning every training session is expected to be as competitive as any league fixture.
Despite the battle for selection, Mthiyane believes the immediate priority extends beyond individual performances.
According to the midfielder, the Spain training camp is about ensuring the squad develops strong relationships on and off the pitch, allowing new signings to settle quickly before the season begins.
“The pre-season is taking us out of the holidays, and we go back to work. And we are also under pressure to perform,” Mthiyane told Pirates media.
“Last season, the guys did a very good job, and now it’s about maintaining the bar that they have set. So we keep pushing and working hard.”
His comments reflect the standards that continue to define Orlando Pirates, where last season’s achievements have only raised expectations for the campaign ahead.
With preparations intensifying in Spain, the Buccaneers know that technical ability alone will not be enough. Building cohesion, sharpening combinations and creating a united squad could ultimately prove to be the foundation of their ambitions when competitive football returns.
