Why A Previously Tracked Striker May No Longer Fit Pirates’ Plans |

Junior Dion during the Betway Premiership match between Golden Arrows and Kaizer Chiefs

There have been quiet whispers in football corridors suggesting that Orlando Pirates could, at some point, look again in the direction of Junior Dion – an imposing centre-forward who has previously been linked with the Soweto giants.

But indications are that such a move is unlikely at this stage. Dion has long been a name associated with Pirates’ interest, dating back to his time in Botswana where he featured for Jwaneng Galaxy.

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His performances, including one against Pirates in CAF competitions, caught the attention of the club’s scouting department and placed him firmly on their radar.

In the current campaign, Dion has been among the standout performers in front of goal, registering seven goals in 13 league appearances for Golden Arrows and leading the Betway Premiership scoring charts going into the December break.

The Ivorian has visibly flourished under coach Manqoba Mngqithi since joining Abafana Bes’thende from KwaZulu-Natal neighbours AmaZulu in July, finding rhythm, confidence and continuity in his role at the heart of Arrows’ attack.

The 27-year-old had already elevated his profile when he re-joined Marumo Gallants on loan from AmaZulu in the second half of last season, producing impressive performances in their campaign and briefly working under current Buccaneers boss Abdeslam Ouaddou during the French-Moroccan’s stint at the Mangaung-based side.

Their professional relationship sparked assumptions that a reunion could be possible now that Ouaddou is at the helm in Soweto and actively guiding a team challenging in domestic and continental competitions.

However, sources close to the situation suggest the opposite.

“I have heard about interest in the player from Pirates in the past, but I don’t think that’s an option now under the current coach. You must remember that the coach did work with him at his previous club, and it’s not expected that he would be keen on him at this stage. He knows his strengths and his weaknesses, and he would prefer other fresh options now to strengthen his high-flying Orlando Pirates squad going forward,” said a source with knowledge of the situation.

While Dion remains a respected striker, especially for his physical presence, aerial strength and ability to operate as a traditional number nine, the current technical direction at Pirates appears to be moving in a different direction.

Ouaddou is believed to be prioritising a more dynamic attacking profile: fluid forward players who contribute both in structured buildup play and in rapid transitional phases.

With Pirates already boasting competition in attacking areas and tactical evolution unfolding, the club is expected to consider alternative offensive options rather than revisiting previously scouted targets.

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Dion’s value in the South African football landscape is unquestioned, and few teams would hesitate at the opportunity to add a striker of his calibre.

But as things stand, with Pirates focused on reshaping certain departments while maintaining continuity in others, the Ivorian frontman does not appear likely to feature on their list of immediate reinforcements. 

Photo by Gerhard Duraan/BackpagePix 

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