
Orlando Pirates are exploring the possibility of loaning Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo to Marumo Gallants.
This could be a tactical move for Pirates, particularly as Ndlondlo’s contract nears its end at the conclusion of the season, suggesting a low probability of his continuation with the squad.
Ndlondlo has seen limited action this season, totaling only 14 minutes in the league and 90 minutes during the early rounds of the CAF Champions League.
His league minutes were accrued in a match against AmaZulu in October, shortly after which Mohau Nkota netted two goals at Orlando Stadium just after Ndlondlo was substituted in.
He faces considerable competition in midfield, with coach Jose Riveiro preferring Thalente Mbatha, Kabelo Dlamini, and Makhehleni Makhaula this term.
Riveiro’s midfield options also include Miguel Timm, Azola Tsheobeni, and Goodman Mosele, all of whom have faced challenges in securing regular playing time this season.
The 29-year-old Ndlondlo transferred to Pirates from Gallants before the 2022/23 season, alongside Timm and Katlego Otladisa.
Prior to his stint at Pirates, Ndlondlo was an important player for Gallants, notably scoring a crucial goal in their Nedbank Cup win when they were called Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila under coach Dylan Kerr in the 2020/21 season against Chippa United.
In the subsequent season, he contributed to Gallants’ return to the Nedbank Cup final under the guidance of current coach Dan Malesela, although they were defeated by Mamelodi Sundowns.
Since joining Pirates two and a half seasons ago, Ndlondlo has added two more Nedbank Cup titles and three MTN8 titles to his collection with the Soweto Giants.
To date, he has made 54 appearances across all competitions, netting three goals and providing three assists for the team.