Orlando Pirates could face another setback in their efforts to retain Mohau Nkota, with reports suggesting that the club does not have an option to sign the winger permanently when his current loan spell comes to an end.

The 21-year-old attacker returned to the Buccaneers for the 2026/27 campaign after joining Saudi Arabian outfit Al-Ettifaq on a permanent transfer in July 2025. Nkota signed a three-year contract with the Middle Eastern club following an impressive breakthrough season at Orlando Pirates.

However, his move to Saudi Arabia has not produced the expected results. The young winger managed 22 appearances for Al-Ettifaq, scoring two goals and registering three assists before injuries and personal difficulties affected his progress.

One of the biggest challenges came in June 2026 when Nkota suffered a torn meniscus, forcing him to deal with another setback in his development.

His return to Orlando Pirates presented an opportunity to recover his fitness, regain confidence and rediscover the form that previously made him one of the club's promising young talents.

Despite being back at familiar surroundings, however, Nkota has struggled to secure a regular place in head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou's starting plans.

Since returning to Soweto, the winger has made only two appearances, both coming as a substitute. He featured against Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 final before also coming on during the Carling Knockout Cup last-16 encounter against Milford FC.

He was also included in the matchday squad when Orlando Pirates defeated Kaizer Chiefs 2-1 in the latest Soweto Derby but remained on the bench throughout the encounter.

Although the technical team could gradually give him more opportunities as he works towards regaining full match fitness, uncertainty remains over his long-term future at the club.

According to information reported by the Siya crew, Orlando Pirates do not have a purchase option in Nkota's current loan agreement. This means Al-Ettifaq still controls his long-term future, and the Buccaneers would need to negotiate a separate agreement with the Saudi Arabian club if they want to retain him beyond the loan period.

For now, Nkota's priority will be to convince Ouaddou that he deserves more playing time. Regular appearances could help him rebuild his confidence and demonstrate that he still has plenty to offer the Soweto giants.

Orlando Pirates are scheduled to face Sekhukhune United on Saturday, providing another possible opportunity for the youngster to feature.

However, whether Nkota can establish himself in the team before his loan spell expires could play an important role in determining his future at Orlando Pirates.

For the Buccaneers, the situation presents a potential transfer challenge, as even an improvement in the winger's performances may not guarantee that he remains at the club beyond the current arrangement.

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