Orlando Pirates could lose Monnapule Saleng despite exercising contract option. Here’s what you need to know.
So Pirates may struggle to keep Saleng, even after the club reportedly activated a two-year option in his contract. Saleng, who has not appeared for the Pirates since early December, remains in a legal dispute with the club, adding to the uncertainty about his future.
The 26-year-old winger has been missing from Pirates’ line up for several months, sparking widespread media speculation. According to his representatives, the absence stems from a legal issue between Saleng and the club. “The reasons behind his disappearance were not just rumours; there is a serious legal dispute,” his agents explained.
Saleng’s absence took on greater significance when he was included in the Bafana Bafana CHAN squad, despite not having played a competitive match in months. His release from the squad only fuelled further speculation regarding his future.
Pirates contract: What does the two-year option mean?
Despite the tensions, reports suggest that Orlando Pirates exercised a two-year option on Saleng’s contract, binding him to the club for an extended period. However, this move might not secure Saleng’s loyalty. According to seasoned football agent Gary Cassisa, once a club activates an option in a player’s contract, the player has limited power to negotiate changes.
Cassisa explains, “It’s not just for junior players. I’ve seen it with senior players too. They sign these long contracts, often three years with a two-year option, and then make the national team. But when that happens, they’re still earning a modest salary, and the agent tries to negotiate for more money based on the player’s rising profile.”
Contract stalemate: Can Pirates and Saleng reach an agreement?
Cassisa further explains that when players sign such contracts, they often find themselves stuck in a difficult situation. “Some clubs will reward players for their progress, but others will take advantage of the situation and refuse to adjust their offers,” he said. “It’s contractual, and unfortunately, there’s not much a player can do. They’re often left in a position where they have to beg the club for an increase.”
If Orlando Pirates and Saleng’s representatives fail to resolve their differences, the club could end up with an unhappy player on their hands, unless they decide to sell him during the off-season transfer window. The ongoing dispute highlights the importance of understanding the complexities of player contracts and how they can affect both the club and the player’s career trajectory.
Will Bucs sell Saleng? Future of the winger uncertain
The situation leaves Pirates in a tricky position. If Saleng remains dissatisfied with his contract and the club is unwilling to meet his demands, they may look to offload him during the next transfer window. However, if the parties can find common ground, the 26-year-old winger could continue to make a significant impact for the Buccaneers.
As this contract saga unfolds, the key question remains. Will Saleng’s future at Pirates be secured, or will the club be forced to part ways with their star player? Only time will tell.
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