Skillful midfielder Katlego Otladisa has opened up on an 'unexpected' move to Orlando Pirates and why he chose the Buccaneers.
Otladisa was one of the standout performers in an exciting Marumo Gallants side that progressed as far as the semi-finals of the CAF Confederations Cup.
READ | Pirates duo ruled out till 2024 and more injury updates
The winger made an impressive 43 appearances across all competitions, providing six assists and unsurprising attracting interest from several topflight clubs.
Prior, The 27-year-old had his longest spell with Mamelodi Sundowns between 2018 and 2020, during which he was loaned out to Platinum Stars, Cape Umoya and Ajax Cape Town before he joined Orbit College in the National First Division.
Gallants came calling after Orbit in 2021 and Otladisa spent two years Bahlabane Ba Ntwa. The attacking midfielder admits by then he all but given up hopes of playing for a 'big team' and was surprised
"I didn't really expect that (getting another chance at a big team)," Otladisa told journalists at a recent Adidas event at Maponya Mall.
"All I was just focusing on is I'm getting minutes, getting a team to play for and doing what I love."
So far, Otladisa has made just six appearances for his new team but has tasted silverware in winning the MTN8, a factor that was crucial in his decision to join the Sea Robbers.
"I wanted to associate myself with like a winning fraternity you know,
"Pirates have been doing well lately let's be honest, last season ago they had the double (MTN8 and Nedbank Cup winners) so I wanted that feeling as well and to be a part of that team.
Otladisa did this to Djabal and Ndlondlo mara eish ?????? Orlando Pirates ???? pic.twitter.com/c5zGlAdDou
— NICK. (@ltsNlCK) August 25, 2023
With success, there has also been disappointment. Pirates crashed out of the CAF Champions League after failing to defeat Jwaneng Galaxy in the second preliminary round of the continental showpiece.
"It was really disappointing to get knocked out, I was looking forward to heading into the CAF tournaments as well with a more organised team (better resourced team), If I can put it like that, no disrespect to Gallants," Otladisa added.
"But yes, It was really disappointing but that's how it works"
Otladisa will be aiming to cement a place in head coach Jose Riveiro's plans as when DStv Premiership action resumes after the FIFA international break.
Pirates sit seventh on the log table after ten matches and carry to games in hand. They return to action when they travel to KwaZulu -Natal to take on Richards Bay on Saturday at King Zwelithini Stadium. Kick-off is at 15:00.
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments.
Click HERE to register!