Pyramids FC coach Rulani Mokwena has revealed why Sipho Mbule’s style of play was central to his advice that the midfielder should join Orlando Pirates after leaving Mamelodi Sundowns. Mokwena believes Mbule’s style suited the Buccaneers’ football culture, where players who combine skill with showmanship have long enjoyed a special connection with the supporters.
Mbule, 28, consulted Mokwena before joining Pirates ahead of their treble-winning campaign. He went on to make 23 appearances before moving to Iraqi side Zakho SC ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Speaking during a virtual discussion with the South African Football Journalists’ Association [SAFJA], Mokwena explained why he felt the move would suit his former player.
Having grown up in Orlando West and later coached Pirates, Mokwena said his understanding of the club shaped the advice he gave Mbule.
“I grew up in Orlando West. I grew up watching Orlando Pirates as a kid. I’m fortunate enough to also understand the culture of the club,” said Mokwena.
“I’m fortunate enough to understand the history of the club. I am fortunate enough that I spent many years being educated about the club by Dr Khoza.”
WHY MOKWENA FELT MBULE SUITED PIRATES
Mokwena pointed to the affection Pirates supporters have shown entertainers such as Steve Lekoelea, Teko Modise, Thabo Rakhale and Jomo Sono.
He explained that while dependable players have provided the foundations for successful Pirates teams, those capable of producing something special on the ball often forge a different bond with the fans.
“You know, the Orlando Pirates fans tell you they come to watch the Steve Lekoeleas, the Teko Modises, the Siphos,” he said.
“And Sipho Mbule has this type of profile, where at the Amstel Arena, first is you have to give us a show. We pay to come and watch.”
For Mokwena, Mbule’s touch and creativity placed him in that tradition.
“I think if you ask the Pirates fans, they enjoyed Sipho Mbule. They enjoyed having Sipho on the pitch and caressing the ball,” he added.
“These type of players like Sipho, who have this capacity to bring this level of entertainment onto the pitch, they have more comfort in playing for Orlando Pirates than most other players who lack this capacity.”
Mokwena also referenced the enduring image of Sono standing on the ball against Kaizer Chiefs as an example of how moments of flair become part of Pirates’ identity.
MBULE’S CONTRIBUTION TO PIRATES’ TITLE SUCCESS
Beyond his appeal to supporters, Mokwena believes Mbule made an important contribution to Pirates’ league-winning campaign, particularly during the first half of the season.
He argued that the midfielder helped the Buccaneers collect valuable early results and remain in contention for the championship.
“Some of the games that Sipho played in the earlier parts of the season were so important, and the results were so important to help Orlando Pirates not lose the league and to stay in the championship,” said Mokwena.
The former Sundowns coach also clarified that their conversation had focused on Pirates, rather than a comparison between offers from different clubs.
“I wasn’t aware of the other clubs that were after him. In fact, he didn’t mention to me that Chiefs had also made an offer,” he explained.
“What he had asked me was whether or not he should join Orlando Pirates and what my thoughts were.”
Mokwena said he offered his assessment of the player and the club, leaving Mbule to make the final call.
“At the end, he had to make his own decision, and he chose to go to Orlando Pirates. I think even in retrospect and looking back, it was the right decision.”