Orlando Pirates have officially confirmed the departure of Thembinkosi Lorch, who has joined PSL rivals Mamelodi Sundowns. The deal follows weeks of rumors about the 30-year-old’s prospective move to Sundowns, and he is finally poised to wear the Brazilians’ colors.
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Former South African Player of the Season Thembinkosi Lorch joins Masandawana! π Let’s welcome our newest addition! π‘#Sundowns #WelcomeLorch pic.twitter.com/Zr9PwVcZpT
β Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) January 27, 2024
In a club statement, the team stated;
“Thembinkosi Lorch is set to depart from Orlando Pirates Football Club following discussions between Chairman Dr. Irvin Khoza and the Mamelodi Sundowns hierarchy.”
The club expressed gratitude to Lorch, affectionately known as ‘Nyoso,’ for his significant contributions that have left an indelible mark on the club’s history.
The statement continued,
“We appreciate his immense contribution and wish him and his family all the best in his future sporting endeavors.”
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L O R C Hβ«οΈβͺοΈπ΄βοΈ#OrlandoPirates#OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/LQQo5RIVCt
β Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) January 26, 2024
Lorch’s move to Sundowns is regarded as a significant milestone, demonstrating the club’s determination to retaining supremacy in South African football while also expanding its influence beyond the continent. Despite Sundowns’ existing midfield depth, it remains to be seen whether Lorch will be able to establish himself in the team when he joins the Chloorkop-based club.