Transfer news: Pirates links swirl as Polokwane coach speaks on Matuludi
· The South African
Polokwane City coach Willy Moloto has addressed the absence of star defender Thabang Matuludi from the matchday squad amid continued transfer speculation.
The 26-year-old right-back has attracted interest from several top clubs, including Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns, in recent months. He was heavily linked with a move away from Polokwane City during the current transfer window.
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However, Moloto insists Matuludi’s absence has nothing to do with the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.
“There’s no such thing. Every time people don’t see a player, they start with the talk,” Moloto told FARPost.
The Polokwane coach explained that Matuludi has been dealing with minor knocks after being involved with Bafana Bafana at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“Remember, Matuludi was also with Bafana Bafana [at the 2026 FIFA World Cup], and he picked up some knocks in training.
“The team has also been doing well, so sometimes there is no need to change.”
Matuludi sidelined but…
“If it’s not broken, why fix it? He will get his chance—there are a lot of games.
“Let’s give the youngster [Surprise Manthosi] a chance. He did well even though he had some mistakes in the first half [in the league tie against Stellenbosch on Tuesday],” he said.
Despite Moloto playing down concerns over Matuludi’s absence, the defender continues to be linked with a move to one of the country’s biggest clubs.
Orlando Pirates are reportedly among the favourites to secure his services, particularly after the Buccaneers released two right-backs in July.