'Do not touch Orlando Pirates king Hotto'
Orlando Pirates have released Innocent Maela and Miguel Timm. Some fans are worried about other club veterans.
Club captain Innocent Maela and veteran midfielder Miguel Timm are both leaving Pirates. There are also whispers that top earner Deon Hotto could be following them out of the exit door.
One X user said: 'Do not touch King Hotto,' presumably suggesting that the club would be foolish to release the versatile 34-year-old Deon Hotto. The Namibian is still a dependable player and popular among fans and teammates, and managers, comfortable in several positions and tactical systems. Since joining from Wits in 2020, club stalwart Hotto has notched up over 200 appearances, collecting six trophies. To say he's an underrated performer is a massive understatement.
Broos explains why he likes Selepe for Bafana
Riveiro throws unintentional shade at Orlando Pirates? The ever-reliable Deon Hotto. Image via @power987sport / X
Thabiso Sesane started the campaign in domineering form, becoming a pillar in the heart of their defence. It was, therefore, a massive blow to the club and player when he was cruelly struck down with a serious tendon injury in February. The rupture was deemed bad enough for the 25-year-old to undergo surgery. Full recovery could take anywhere between four and six months. If Sesane's rehabilitation goes well, he could be back in time for the start of the 2025-2026 season.
44-year-old Pablo Franco Martin is a serious candidate for the top coaching job at Pirates. The Madrid-born tactician has held several interesting roles. Those include Opposition Analyst for Real Madrid and Head Coaching posts for Tanzanian side Simba SC, AmaZulu, Kuwaiti outfit Qadsia SC and now Al-Faisaly in Saudi Arabia's second tier.
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Did Makgopa and Mabasa offend Hugo Broos?
Should Hotto get a new deal with Pirates?
Let us know by leaving a comment below or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Also, subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
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