Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro expressed his hope for a positive resolution between the club and Monnapule Saleng, who has been excluded from the team.

As reported by Sportswire, Saleng is expected to leave the club after contract renewal negotiations failed. His current contract expires at the end of the season.

His absence has created a significant void in the team, which they are struggling to fill. While Mohau Nkota has shown promise in his place, his inexperience has been evident during crucial moments.

Saleng is known for performing well in high-stakes matches, a quality Pirates is sorely missing. However, sources have informed this publication that Saleng will not play for the club again, as he has reportedly committed to another team, which has angered the club.

Consequently, Saleng is not even participating in the club’s training camp and, according to Sportswire sources, has been told to stay home.

“Are you asking me about him?” Riveiro asked, eliciting laughter from the media present.

Given the delicate nature of the situation, coach Riveiro chose his words carefully after Pirates’ goalless draw against 10-man Stellenbosch in the Betway Premiership match at Athlone Stadium on Tuesday.

As Pirates drew, Sundowns capitalized, defeating AmaZulu 2-0 at Lucas Moripe Stadium, also on Tuesday.

Sundowns, now with 58 points after 22 matches, have re-established an 18-point lead over second-placed Pirates, whom they will face at FNB Stadium on Sunday.

“Again, I don’t think about players who are not here. I don’t think everyone expected us to be in this situation, but it is what it is,” Riveiro continued regarding Saleng.

“As you know, it is not my role to speak extensively about this issue. I simply wish the best for both parties in this situation.

“Whatever I say will likely become a headline, right? But we are focused on the players we have. That’s it.

“I think, fortunately, we have a lot of talent in the team, players with a lot of hunger, eager to seize their opportunities.

“As I’ve said many times, the opportunities are there for them. We have players in every position capable of doing the job, and that’s it.

“We must live in the moment and look for the future, and the future is to get ready tomorrow (Wednesday) for the big match on the weekend. There is no time to think so much about who is there and who is not.”  

Saleng has not played for Pirates since the CAF Champions League group stage match against Al Ahly at Orlando Stadium on 7 December, where he was, as always, a significant threat.