Pirates Part Ways With Joseph Makhanya
Orlando Pirates has parted ways with club legend and development coach Joseph Makhanya, Sportswire can confirm.
From Diski Challenge Collapse to Regional Demotion
Makhanya was initially demoted to Pirates’ development side, Pele Pele, after the club removed him from his post as DDC head coach ahead of last season.
Roscoe Krieling replaced Makhanya at the helm and immediately made history. Krieling guided the Buccaneers to their first-ever Reserve League title, setting a new competition record with 75 points—surpassing the previous record of 70 points set by rivals Kaizer Chiefs.
The title win delivered a significant blow to Makhanya’s coaching reputation. Under his guidance, Pirates repeatedly mounted strong title charges, only to suffer late-season collapses around Round 25. These recurring drop-offs raised critical questions regarding Makhanya’s tactical composure and attention to detail during high-pressure title run-ins.
Nurturing Soweto’s Top Export Talent
Despite his DDC title shortcomings, Makhanya leaves behind a strong legacy as a talent developer. He played a pivotal role in nurturing several players who earned major international moves:
- Relebohile Mofokeng: Developed directly under Makhanya before joining Belgian outfit Royale Union Saint-Gilloise following a treble-winning campaign with Pirates.
- Mbekezeli Mbokazi: Promoted and refined through Makhanya’s DDC squad before securing a high-value transfer to MLS side Chicago Fire in January.
- Mohau Nkota: Another academy product under Makhanya’s watch who secured an overseas move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq.
Makhanya’s connection to the Soweto Giants spans over two decades. After making his senior playing debut in the 2000/01 season, he spent 11 years as a Pirates player, winning three league titles.
Technical Team Shake-Up at Mayfair
Makhanya’s departure marks the second high-profile exit from Mayfair in recent days. Pirates also parted ways with assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi last week.
Ncikazi was released following alleged friction with head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. He has since returned to Golden Arrows.
