Yanela Mbuthuma eyes strong start at Orlando Pirates after dream move

The 23-year-old forward was unveiled by the Buccaneers ahead of their pre-season tour of Spain, where he began his integration into the squad under newly appointed head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.

Speaking to broadcaster Thomas Mlambo during the tour, Mbuthuma has asked for support from the fans and revealed that his grandmother was the first person he shared the news of his big move with.

"So far everything is going well for me at the Buccaneers. I am being treated well, so I can't complain," said Mbuthuma.

"The first person I told about my Pirates move is my grandmother because I live with her. It was very important to tell her before I tell anyone else. I told her I had some good news and she was very happy that I'd taken a big step in my career, joining a big team like Pirates. She didn't believe me at first, but I told her that I wasn't lying at all."

Mbuthuma described his early days at the Soweto giants as smooth and positive, saying he already feels comfortable among his new teammates and staff.

"So far everything is going well for me at the Buccaneers. I am being treated well, so I can't complain," he added.

With Pirates now back home to wrap up their pre-season, attention shifts to the 2025/26 campaign opener. The Buccaneers will face Polokwane City in the MTN8 quarter-final at Orlando Stadium on August 2.

Mbuthuma will be hoping to make his official debut in the fixture, but competition for places is fierce. He'll be vying for a starting spot alongside Evidence Makgopa, Tshegofatso Mabasa, Zakhele Lepasa, and Boitumelo Radiopane upfront.

The promising forward's move to Pirates is seen as a big step up - and if his determination is anything to go by, fans could see a new star emerge in black and white.