Former Orlando Pirates striker Jerry Skosana has expressed his disappointment with the way he believes the club treats him, saying his contribution to the Buccaneers' history has not earned him the recognition and privileges he expected.

Skosana, famously known as "Legs of Thunder" during his playing career, believes the Soweto giants should do more to appreciate former players who helped build the club's reputation and establish its legacy.

The former striker claims that despite his history with Pirates, he still has to stand in queues with ordinary supporters to purchase tickets whenever he wants to attend matches.

"I don't feel treated as a legend by Orlando Pirates," Skosana said.

He also complained about what he described as a lack of complimentary club merchandise, arguing that the treatment he receives does not reflect his contribution to the team during his playing days.

"I am made to queue with supporters to buy my own tickets to the stadium. I don't even get free Pirates merchandise," he added.

His comments have reignited a debate about how football clubs should recognise their former stars, particularly those who played important roles in shaping their history and building relationships with supporters.

For many football fans, club legends are more than former players. They represent memorable moments, historic victories and the traditions that connect different generations of supporters.

Skosana's concerns have therefore raised questions about whether Orlando Pirates should introduce better ways of recognising former players and making them feel valued long after their playing careers have ended.

Skosana Clarifies His Comments About Pirates' Title Win

Apart from expressing dissatisfaction with the treatment he receives, Skosana also addressed his earlier controversial remarks about Orlando Pirates' recent Betway Premiership triumph.

The former striker had suggested that the club bought the league title, comments that attracted attention among supporters. However, he has since clarified that his statement was made jokingly and was not motivated by bitterness towards the club.

"I was joking when I said Pirates bought the League title. It wasn't because of bitterness," he explained.

Orlando Pirates ended their 14-year wait for the league championship in May 2026, defeating Orbit College 2-0 to secure the Betway Premiership title and complete a domestic treble. Both goals in the match were own goals scored by Orbit College players.

Skosana's explanation indicates that his earlier remarks should not necessarily be interpreted as an attempt to undermine Pirates' achievement.

Questions Over How Pirates Treat Their Former Stars

Despite clarifying his comments about the league title, Skosana's latest statements have shifted attention towards the relationship between Orlando Pirates and its former players.

His complaints have prompted discussion about whether clubs do enough to acknowledge the people who contributed to their success before moving on from professional football.

While supporters may have different opinions about the privileges former players should receive, Skosana believes his history with the Buccaneers deserves greater recognition.

For now, the former striker has made his position clear: he wants to feel appreciated by the club he once represented.

Whether his comments will prompt a response from Orlando Pirates remains to be seen, but the issue has renewed debate about respect, recognition and the treatment of football legends.

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