The Buccaneers enjoyed a remarkable campaign, finishing the season with three major trophies. Orlando Pirates added the Betway Premiership title to an already impressive haul after also lifting the MTN8 and Carling Knockout trophies.
Mhlongo believes the club's achievements were the product of careful planning rather than a sudden rise to success. According to the former skipper, the triumphs stem from a long-term vision that has been implemented over several years.
He credited both the squad and the club's leadership for maintaining a clear direction that ultimately translated into silverware on the field.
The retired defender also reserved special praise for the current group of players, insisting they have earned a permanent place in the club's rich history.
"Pirates this season were in top form. I can't even choose a goal from their players as the goal of the season because they all deserved the award. They gave Sundowns a strong challenge," Mhlongo told KickOff.
"We should also congratulate these young players for winning a treble. This generation is now part of the club's history. They've won a treble, so why not? They're now among the greats of Orlando Pirates. They are in the club's history books.
"I hope to see them earn the second star for the club. Congratulations to the players, the coaching staff, and the management. I'm yet to see the chairman appoint a coach who does not succeed. He always brings in someone new, someone we haven't heard of, but he knows how to select a coach who understands Pirates.
"Well done to Nkosana and Mpumi Khoza. When they started their vision to bring back youthful players - teams like those of the generation of Gift Leremi and Tso Vilakazi - we can see that vision coming true. They should be recognised in the history books."
