Orlando Pirates land Mthetheleli Mthiyane in Stellenbosch swop deal

The public broadcaster revealed earlier this week that Lebitso was on his way to the Cape Winelands but it has since emerged that the agreement also includes Mthiyane joining the Soweto giants. 

The move represents a significant step up for the 25-year-old midfielder, who was playing in the Motsepe Foundation Championship with Milford FC just two seasons ago before earning a move to Stellies. 

Mthiyane enjoyed an impressive 2025/26 campaign, making 38 appearances across all competitions, including 25 in the Betway Premiership. 

He established himself as a key figure in midfield during a difficult season that saw the club battle relegation under Steve Barker and retained his place after Gavin Hunt took over the reins.

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While Stellenbosch have undergone a major squad overhaul in recent weeks, Mthiyane's departure is not a result of him being surplus to requirements. 

Instead, the midfielder leaves after attracting strong interest from Pirates, who have secured his services for an undisclosed fee while allowing Lebitso to move in the opposite direction. 

The transfer is understood to have been a difficult one for Stellies to sanction given Mthiyane's importance to the team, however, they do receive an experienced replacement in Lebitso, who arrives with extensive Betway Premiership knowhow.¯ 

At Pirates, Mthiyane will face stiff competition for a place in midfield from the likes of Thalente Mbatha, Makhehlene Makhaula and Selaelo Rasebotja but is regarded as a player with significant potential.

He becomes the latest Stellenbosch player to make the move to Orlando Pirates, following in the footsteps of players such as Deano van Rooyen, Sihle Nduli and Andre de Jongh.¯