Morena Ramoreboli explains why Pirates retained Deon Hotto

Botswana National Team coach, Morena Ramoreboli, has weighed in on Orlando Pirates’ decision to extend Deon Hotto’s contract, emphasising the Namibian international’s unique value to the club.

Hotto, 34, has been a key player for the Buccaneers since joining in 2020 from Bidvest Wits. Last season, he had a stellar campaign, playing in 49 matches across all competitions, scoring six goals, and providing eight assists.

Despite his contract expiring in June and attracting interest from Egyptian giants Al Ahly and Pyramids FC, Pirates acted swiftly to offer Hotto a new two-year deal.

He was with the team at their pre-season training camp in Spain and featured in the club’s first game of the new season as they beat Polokwane City 2-0 in the MTN8 quarterfinals on Saturday.

Ramoreboli believes Hotto’s versatility and positive attitude are what make him indispensable.

“Deon Hotto is very special because he can play more than one position, which I think is the reason why Pirates do not want to lose him,” Ramoreboli told Pan-Africa Football.

“He brings a positive attitude to any position where the coach plays him. If you play him as a left-back, he will still give you the same effort. If you play him as a left-winger, he will still bring the same energy in the field of play.”

The 2025/26 season marks Hotto’s sixth with Pirates, where he has already played over 200 games.