'Release the captain': Orlando Pirates fans unhappy with Xoki's contract extension
The 30-year-old defender has served as a regular captain for the team since joining the Buccaneers in 2022 from AmaZulu. While he had two strong seasons initially, some fans believe that injuries and limited playing time impacted Xoki's performance last season.
With Xoki and Olisah Ndah sidelined for much of the past season, Orlando Pirates had to rely on Nkosinathi Sibisi and two inexperienced defenders, Mbekezile Mbokazi and Thabiso Sesane.
Although Sesane was injured in February, his replacement, Mbokazi, performed impressively and even earned a cap for Bafana Bafana at just 19 years old.
Towards the end of the season, Xoki was called back into action but struggled in crucial matches. In the CAF Champions League semi-final, the 30-year-old was held responsible for Pirates' loss to Pyramids in the second leg. In June, it was reported that the former AmaZulu captain would extend his stay with Orlando Pirates, a decision that did not sit well with some fans.
@Moshukudumash wrote: 'No , this guy is the biggest threat at our center back , he is easily bullied by psl strikers.'
@MduPG wrote: 'Release the Captain & get a faster Defensive player. He can't run with Du Preez on attacks, or chase after Riberio.
@Oppenheimer702 wrote: 'It a bad call when you have Sibisi, Mbokazi, Ndah and Sesane. He is currently the worst center back we have!'
Orlando Pirates kick off their season in two weeks against Polokwane City in the MTN8.
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