Orlando Pirates star Hotto promises money for ambitious stadium deal

Orlando Pirates and Namibia star Deon Hotto has pledged funding for an ambitious new stadium project in his hometown.

Orlando Pirates star gives back

Utility man Deon Hotto, now 33, pledges R2 million to help build the 10,000-seat Deon Hotto sports facility in Swakopmund Mondesa. This is via @footynamibia and @unplayableZA on X.

Is Mr Reliable Pirates leaving this winter?

A star for Namibia at Afcon 2023, Hotto was a rock-solid player on the left side of the Pirates team. Equally adept in defense and midfield, he is every manager’s dream. However, his 33-year contract expires in June and is unlikely to be extended. The hugely experienced star has 65 caps and 10 goals for his country. He has also made 23 appearances in the DStv Premiership this season, not missing a single game, scoring a goal and providing five assists. To say he will be difficult to replace would be a gross understatement. However, at 33, he is their highest earner with a reported R500k per month salary.

Huge changes at Orlando Pirates

Sergio Almenara and Miguel Bellver left the club for personal reasons, with assistant coach Almenara confirming his departure following the Nedbank Cup win over Sundowns. The Buccaneers hinted at big changes after the 2023-2024 season and now we’re seeing it pay off. Performance analyst Devin O’Brien arrives from Stellenbosch. The Winelands side narrowly lost to Pirates for second place and qualification for the CAF Champions League. Stellies won their first ever silverware by claiming the Carling Knockout crown.

“The Club will – in consultation with the Head Coach – seek to use this off-season break to find a suitable replacement(s) and to strengthen the backroom staff in the technical, analysis, medical and conditioning departments,” they stated through iDiskiTimes.

Mabasa on his way out?

Last season’s Golden Boot winner scored sixteen goals in the competition. It seems crazy at first to sell a player of his caliber, but when a huge offer comes in from a wealthy suitor, the Buccaneers board may think now is the right time to sell the 27-year-old. His current contract expires in June, but according to… transfer market, a two-year renewal option is included. The popular website estimates Mabasa’s value to be around €1.3 million, about R25 million. Thanks to rumors from across Europe, the club will have no trouble securing a fee for the red-hot shooter in this region. If they play their cards right, they can make significantly more money from sales.

Will you miss Hotto when he leaves, Bucs fans? Will Jose Riveiro ensure a title attack next season?