Orlando Pirates fans are reeling after news that Paseka Mako, a key player, is leaving the club. But the shock doesn't end there! KickOff has exclusively learned that Mako has signed a three-year deal with their Soweto rivals, Kaizer Chiefs.
Mako's contract with the Buccaneers was expiring this June. While Pirates desperately tried to keep him, Mako reportedly signed a pre-contract agreement with Amakhosi after the Nedbank Cup final in Durban in May. Sources within Pirates confirmed the club's efforts were in vain, stating that Mako had already made up his mind.
"Pirates did everything to keep Mako, but the player had already made up his mind," a source revealed. "There were even bigger plans to keep Mako beyond his playing days at Pirates, but the player had already decided to join Kaizer Chiefs."
The 31-year-old wingback's move is effective from 1 July. Kaizer Chiefs are expected to unveil Mako alongside other new signings in the coming weeks. The team is also scheduled to travel to the Netherlands for pre-season training next month. This move is a significant coup for Chiefs and a blow to Pirates, intensifying the already fierce Soweto Derby rivalry.
More Player Movements at Orlando Pirates
Mako's departure coincides with the release of Thabiso Monyane, who was also linked with Kaizer Chiefs. Innocent Maela and Miguel Timm are also leaving the club at the end of the 2024-25 season. This signals a major squad overhaul at Orlando Pirates. While the Buccaneers are seeing players leave, they are yet to confirm any new signings.
What This Means for the Soweto Derby
Mako's move directly impacts the Soweto Derby. His experience and skill will be a valuable asset to Kaizer Chiefs, while Pirates will need to find a suitable replacement to fill the void he leaves behind. The upcoming season's derby matches are sure to be even more highly anticipated now that Mako will be playing for the other side.
- Mako signs for Kaizer Chiefs after rejecting Pirates offer.
- Three-year deal effective from 1 July.
- Pirates also release Thabiso Monyane, Innocent Maela and Miguel Timm.