After a few months in the Orlando Pirates squad, Oswin Appollis has continued the form that initially made him a standout at Polokwane City.

The talented forward had previously been linked with Chiefs, but Phala feels the pressure at Naturena would have been heavier, whereas Pirates offer an environment more suited to his style and development.

"Personally, I would have loved to see him at Chiefs, but at Pirates, with the players they have, he’s complemented much better," Phala said during an appearance on the Omni audio Africa YouTube Channel.

"At Chiefs, the pressure was going to be on him to get results immediately. At Pirates, I don't think he has that same weight on his shoulders. It was a smart move for him in that sense."

Phala acknowledged that Appollis' talent would have guaranteed him a starting spot at Chiefs, while also hinting at the financial and political factors behind transfers in the country.

"On the playing side, obviously, he was going to start at Chiefs. He deserves that — he's our national team player and one of the best wingers in the country," he added.

"I still don't understand how Chiefs didn't sign him. Sometimes fans think Chiefs don't want to buy, but when a player is wanted, suddenly it's R10 million," added the 39-year-old.

"Then he signs for Pirates at R3 million. That's how it works sometimes — politics and numbers play a big role.”

Since joining Orlando Pirates, Oswin Appollis has seamlessly slotted into the team, bringing pace, creativity, and flair to the flanks. His impact was immediate — playing a key role in helping the Buccaneers secure their fourth consecutive MTN8 title.

The Bafana Bafana winger contributed one goal and two assists in the four matches he featured in during the tournament, underlining why Pirates were so eager to secure his signature.

Ex-PSL star Thuso Phala breaks down Oswin Appollis' transfer to Orlando Pirates