Orlando Pirates fans were stunned by the departure of Paseka Mako, and now KickOff has learned the details of his next chapter: he's signed with Soweto rivals Kaizer Chiefs! Mako's contract with Pirates was expiring this June, and while the club announced his exit alongside Thabiso Monyane, the destination remained a mystery... until now.
Mako Shocks Pirates, Signs Three-Year Deal with Chiefs
The diminutive wingback has committed to a three-year deal with Amakhosi, effective July 1st. This move comes after Mako reportedly turned down a new contract offer from the Buccaneers. Sources close to Pirates suggest the club made desperate attempts to retain Mako, but he'd apparently already signed a pre-contract with Chiefs following the Nedbank Cup final in Durban.
"Pirates did everything to keep Mako, but the player had already made up his mind," one source revealed. "There were even bigger plans to keep Mako beyond his playing days at Pirates, but the player had already made up his mind to go to Kaizer Chiefs."
Chiefs to Unveil Mako Soon
Kaizer Chiefs are expected to officially unveil the 31-year-old Mako, along with other new signings, in the coming weeks. The squad is reportedly heading to the Netherlands for pre-season training next month, where Mako will likely join his new teammates.
More Player Movement at Pirates
Mako's departure follows the previously announced exits of Innocent Maela and Miguel Timm at the end of the 2024-25 season. The Buccaneers are yet to confirm any new signings, leaving fans eager to see how the squad will be reshaped for the upcoming season.
- Paseka Mako: Signs with Kaizer Chiefs
- Thabiso Monyane: Released by Orlando Pirates
- Innocent Maela & Miguel Timm: Also leaving Pirates