Orlando Pirates beat North African giants to sign CAF star Mariko

Orlando Pirates boss Dr Irvin Khoza
 Image via @OrlandoPirates on X

Pirates have beaten North African giants to sign Malian midfield star Mariko, marking their fourth midfield addition.

Orlando Pirates have pulled off a major coup by securing the signature of highly-rated Malian midfielder Abdoulaye Mariko from Djoliba AC ahead of the 2025/2026 season.

The 23-year-old powerhouse will land in Johannesburg on Thursday to kickstart his Buccaneers journey during pre-season. Mariko has agreed a two-year contract with an option to extend, further bolstering Abdeslam Ouaddou’s midfield options.

By Joshua Hendricks

Full story at The South African.