What’s next for Zakhele Lepasa? Bafana star eyes career revival

Zakhele Lepasa is now a free agent after parting ways with Orlando Pirates, opening the door to fresh possibilities in his professional football career. The 27-year-old’s departure has raised questions about his future, especially with his recent inclusion in the Bafana Bafana squad for CHAN 2025. With clubs on alert and a continental tournament on the horizon, Lepasa’s next steps could define the rest of his playing career.

Orlando Pirates Exit Marks Turning Point

After several seasons of fluctuating form and injuries, Zakhele Lepasa’s contract with Orlando Pirates has officially ended. His departure comes amid a broader reshuffle at the club, which recently signed a new foreign striker, pushing Lepasa further down the pecking order.

Although once seen as a rising star, Lepasa’s struggles with consistency and game time made a clean break inevitable. His last loan stint at SuperSport United gave him brief flashes of form, but the player never quite managed to cement his position back at Pirates.

CHAN 2025: A Golden Opportunity to Impress

Lepasa’s inclusion in the Bafana Bafana squad for the CHAN 2025 qualifiers could not have come at a better time. The tournament, which only features locally-based players, is a unique platform for out-of-contract talent like Lepasa to showcase their skills and attract new clubs.

This could help rebuild his confidence, fitness, and reputation, especially after a difficult spell with limited minutes on the pitch. A strong showing could reignite interest from PSL and even international teams.

PSL Clubs Show Early Interest

Several PSL teams are reportedly interested in signing Lepasa. Clubs like Cape Town Spurs, TS Galaxy, and Marumo Gallants are monitoring the situation closely.

Lepasa previously thrived during a loan spell at TS Galaxy, scoring the winning goal in the 2019 Nedbank Cup final. A return to such an environment could help reignite his form.

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Overseas Move Still a Possibility

While his immediate focus appears to be CHAN 2025 and domestic opportunities, an international transfer is still in play. Lepasa has drawn interest in past transfer windows from clubs in Scandinavia and North Africa.

A standout performance at CHAN 2025 could rekindle those conversations, with scouts from abroad expected to closely monitor the tournament.

Career Reboot Hinges on Fitness and Consistency

One of Lepasa’s biggest obstacles has been staying injury-free. After multiple setbacks, maintaining fitness and form will be critical to reigniting his career.

The next phase will require not just raw talent, but also discipline, mental strength, and game time in the right environment.

A Crucial Crossroads for Lepasa

Zakhele Lepasa stands at a career-defining crossroads. With Orlando Pirates behind him, CHAN 2025 and the transfer market present a chance at redemption. Whether he secures a PSL return or ventures abroad, the next few months will be crucial to determining his future.

For now, all eyes are on CHAN 2025, and on Lepasa’s response to a new beginning.