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Marumo Gallants have reportedly been dealt a major setback after failing to complete the registration of two players they signed on loan from Orlando Pirates, leaving Daniel Msendami and Abdoulaye Mariko unable to feature for the club.
The two players joined Gallants towards the end of the transfer window and were expected to strengthen the squad as the club battles to improve its position in the Betway Premiership. However, reports indicate that the necessary registration paperwork was not submitted before the deadline.
According to a report by iDiski Times, the Zimbabwean international Msendami and Malian midfielder Mariko were not registered in time. Consequently, neither player has received clearance from the Premier Soccer League to represent Gallants in competitive matches.
The development is particularly frustrating for the players, who moved in search of opportunities to contribute on the pitch. Instead, they have been left out of matchday squads since completing their loan moves, with their immediate future at the club affected by an administrative problem.
Gallants had viewed the arrivals as important reinforcements for a team struggling near the bottom of the league table. Their experience and expected contributions were seen as potential boosts during a difficult campaign.
The club's situation has become more challenging because the next opportunity to register the pair is reportedly not expected until the January transfer window. This means Gallants may have to continue with their existing squad for several more weeks without the services of the two players.
The setback comes after Gallants endured a difficult start to the season, suffering several defeats before recording their first league victory with a 3-2 win over Siwelele.
The reported registration failure has therefore raised questions about the club's administrative handling of its recruitment, especially at a time when it needs every available player to improve its results.