Sipho Mbule could be preparing for a longer stay outside South African football, with his agent, Mike Makaab, believing that the midfielder will remain overseas even after his current contract with Iraqi club Zakho SC expires at the end of the season.

The latest comments offer an interesting indication of how Mbule's career could develop following his departure from Orlando Pirates. The 28-year-old midfielder made an unexpected move to Iraq after the Buccaneers decided against extending his stay beyond the 2025/26 campaign. What initially appeared to be an unconventional career decision is increasingly looking like an opportunity for the player to rebuild his reputation away from the pressures of the Premier Soccer League.

Makaab's assessment is particularly significant because he has been closely involved in the midfielder's career decisions. The agent has previously spoken positively about the player's adjustment to life in Iraq, highlighting his happiness, commitment and improved physical condition.

In comments reported by iDiski Times in August, Makaab expressed his satisfaction with Mbule's transformation, indicating that he had rarely seen the midfielder in better physical condition. He also explained that the player had settled comfortably into his new surroundings and was enjoying the football environment at Zakho.

These developments are important when considering the challenges Mbule experienced during his final months at Orlando Pirates.

The former Mamelodi Sundowns player enjoyed an encouraging start to life at the Soweto giants after joining ahead of the 2025/26 season. His technical ability, creativity and capacity to dictate the tempo of matches made him an exciting addition to the Buccaneers' midfield.

However, his involvement became less consistent as the campaign progressed. Despite showing glimpses of his quality, he eventually departed after Pirates opted not to activate the extension option in his contract.

His move to Zakho offered an opportunity to start again without carrying the same expectations that surrounded him in the PSL.

Mbule's early performances in Iraq also provided encouraging signs. According to iDiski Times, he received a Man of the Match award on his Zakho debut before scoring and providing an assist in a 2-2 draw against Diyala.

Those contributions suggested that the midfielder was beginning to find his rhythm in a different football environment.

For South African supporters, particularly those who followed his progress at SuperSport United, Sundowns and Pirates, his development abroad remains worth watching. Mbule has long been regarded as a technically gifted footballer, but maintaining consistency has been an important part of his career journey.

A successful spell in Iraq could give him an opportunity to establish himself as a regular overseas professional rather than immediately returning to the domestic game.

There are also potential implications for Bafana Bafana. Mbule previously earned recognition under national team coach Hugo Broos, but regular club football and consistent performances will be important if he hopes to strengthen his international prospects again.

However, playing outside South Africa does not automatically guarantee national-team selection. His performances, fitness and ability to maintain a high standard throughout the season will ultimately determine his chances.

Makaab's prediction about Mbule's future should also be understood in context. It is an assessment from the player's representative, not confirmation that Zakho have already negotiated a new contract or that another overseas club has secured his services.

Nevertheless, the possibility of continuing abroad reflects how much the player's career direction has changed in a relatively short period.

For now, Mbule's priority should be making the most of his opportunity at Zakho. If he continues performing consistently, he could attract further interest from clubs outside South Africa when his current agreement comes to an end.

A return to the PSL cannot be ruled out, but Makaab's latest assessment suggests that the midfielder may have found an environment where he wants to continue developing his career.

https://ow.ly/3hQb5101e73