Orlando Pirates have reportedly parted ways with former player and coach Joseph Makhanya, also known as Duku-Duku, marking another shift in the Buccaneers’ technical team following the departure of assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi. 

Reports indicate that Makhanya has exited the club, although the specific reasons for his departure remain unclear. This news comes shortly after the Pirates confirmed Ncikazi's decision to leave and pursue a head coaching role in the Premier Soccer League.

Makhanya has a long-standing relationship with Orlando Pirates, having played for the club before transitioning into a coaching role. He was a well-known figure among fans during his playing days and played a key part in the club's achievements.

After hanging up his boots, Makhanya stayed connected to Pirates by coaching youth players and contributing to the club's development programs through the DStv Diski Challenge team.

His involvement in youth development has been significant for the club, helping prepare young talent for professional football as several promising players have advanced through Pirates' development system in recent years.

Eventually, his coaching role shifted from the DStv Diski Challenge team to Pele Pele FC, the club’s feeder team in the Gauteng ABC Motsepe League.

Makhanya's reported exit raises questions about his future role in the Pirates development program, though the lack of official information makes the reasons for his departure uncertain.

This development comes on the heels of Ncikazi's announcements on October 22, 2026, that he would leave the club to seek head coaching opportunities, which led him to secure a position at Lamontville Golden Arrows, a team he had previously coached.

Ncikazi was a vital member of the Pirates technical team, contributing to multiple trophy wins, and his exit signifies a noteworthy transition for the Buccaneers as they gear up for future challenges.

With Makhanya’s rumored departure, fans will be keen to see if additional changes to the technical structure are forthcoming. 

For now, the spotlight remains on Makhanya's situation, but supporters will have to wait for more details to fully grasp the circumstances of his exit.

Until Orlando Pirates or Makhanya issues an official statement, his departure should be regarded as a report rather than a confirmed situation.

Source; https://www.facebook.com/61561499773281/posts/122227976714383325/?app=fbl