The 2024/25 Betway Premiership season has once again showcased the strength and dominance of Mamelodi Sundowns, who continued to raise the bar with another commanding campaign. While Orlando Pirates emerged as the closest contenders, even their spirited title challenge eventually wilted under the unrelenting pressure of the reigning champions.
As clubs now turn their eyes to the upcoming season, the challenge of toppling Sundowns looms large. Dismantling a dynasty of their caliber will likely demand bold recruitment and inspired signings. With that context, the standout new arrivals from this past season have already begun reshaping the league narrative — some as rising stars, others as seasoned professionals hitting new heights.
Iqraam Rayners – A Fairytale Debut with the Champions
After leaving Stellenbosch FC, Iqraam Rayners joined a Mamelodi Sundowns side already bursting with talent and ambition. In a squad chasing continental dominance and armed with seven successive league titles, Rayners’ arrival posed questions about how he would fit in — but the 29-year-old answered emphatically.
Rayners nearly clinched the Golden Boot, finishing just two goals behind teammate Lucas Ribeiro Costa, and notched an impressive 21 goals in 43 appearances across all competitions. His deadly precision in front of goal has been instrumental in Sundowns’ hunt for a league and CAF Champions League double — a dream debut season that has exceeded expectations.
Jayden Adams – A Seamless Midfield Addition
Snapped up during the January transfer window, Jayden Adams wasted no time proving why Sundowns were eager to bring him onboard. The attacking midfielder quickly adapted to the team’s high-octane system, showcasing his creativity and calmness under pressure.
In just a few months, Adams made 17 league appearances, scoring three goals and registering one assist. His impact in a midfield brimming with talent bodes well not just for the immediate future, but for seasons to come.
Deano van Rooyen – Defensive Backbone for Pirates
From Stellenbosch to Soweto, Deano van Rooyen has seamlessly transitioned into Orlando Pirates’ defensive setup. The 28-year-old brought stability and composure to the backline, playing a key role in their MTN8 triumph and strong runs in both the Nedbank Cup and CAF Champions League.
Van Rooyen’s reliable performances didn’t go unnoticed, as he earned a call-up to Bafana Bafana’s preliminary squad. His mix of defensive discipline and occasional attacking forays made him one of Pirates’ most consistent performers in a season full of promise and heartbreak.
Thalente Mbatha – Midfield Workhorse with a Killer Touch
Although already integrated into the Pirates’ setup before his permanent move from SuperSport United, Thalente Mbatha came into his own this season. Forming a solid partnership with Makhehlene Makhaula, Mbatha became one of head coach José Riveiro’s most dependable players.
Appearing in 23 league matches, Mbatha combined a relentless engine with a knack for goal-scoring — both from range and close quarters. His importance in orchestrating play from deep has cemented his role as a core component in the Pirates midfield.
Mbekezeli Mbokazi – Youth Promotion Making Senior Strides
Perhaps the most pleasant surprise of the season was the emergence of Mbekezeli Mbokazi, a 19-year-old talent promoted from the Orlando Pirates development ranks. Far from a stopgap, Mbokazi has slotted into the senior squad with astonishing maturity.
He has delivered standout performances in some of the toughest fixtures — including the CAF Champions League quarter-final against MC Alger and multiple high-pressure Soweto derbies. Calm, composed, and confident, Mbokazi has already begun carving out his place among the stars.
Looking Ahead
While Mamelodi Sundowns remain the gold standard, the 2024/25 season revealed that the gap is narrowing, thanks in part to impactful new signings who are not only adjusting to new environments but thriving in them. From experienced strikers finding their rhythm to young talents seizing their moments, the future of the Premiership is bright — and increasingly competitive.
Next season’s title race promises to be a thriller, and if these debut-season standouts are anything to go by, the league’s biggest names will be pushed harder than ever.
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