Orlando Pirates have confirmed the departure of Deano van Rooyen by mutual consent, taking the number of players to leave the club since June to 13 as the Buccaneers continue a major overhaul before the 2026-27 season.
Van Rooyen’s exit was announced on Friday following discussions between the player and the club about his future. Both parties agreed that he should move on and begin the next stage of his career.
“Orlando Pirates Football Club can confirm that Deano van Rooyen will be leaving the club, after the player and the club agreed to part ways by mutual consent.
“The decision follows open conversations between Deano and the Club, with both sides agreeing that the time is right for him to begin a new chapter in his career.”
The latest departure adds to a substantial clear-out at Mayfair. The biggest group of exits came in July, when Orlando Pirates sanctioned the permanent transfers of seven players to clubs across the Premier Soccer League pyramid.
Van Rooyen follows Thabiso Sesane and Selaelo Rasebotja, who joined Siwelele FC. Siyabonga Ndlozi and Gomolemo Khoto moved to Sekhukhune United, while Sonwabo Khumalo and Blessing Ngiba completed transfers to Midlands Wanderers FC.
Seth Green also joined Durban City FC as Orlando Pirates continued to reduce the size of their squad.
Several senior players had already left at the conclusion of the previous campaign. Bandile Shandu moved to Durban City FC after his contract expired, while Tshegofatso Mabasa, Sipho Mbule, Karim Kimvuidi and Deivi Miguel Vieira, known as Gilberto, also ended their spells with the Buccaneers.
The changes have not been limited to departures, with Orlando Pirates also reshaping the squad through new arrivals. The club have signed nine players, including Thapelo Mokobi, who joined from Stellenbosch FC on a three-year contract.
Sebastian Pedersen, Neo Rapoo, Sbangani Zulu, Bohlale Ngwato, Matome Mmolai, Gamphani Lungu and Mthetheleli Mthiyane are among the other new signings.
Aphiwe Baliti also arrived from Siwelele FC, although he has been loaned back to the club for the season.
The transfer activity reflects a significant change in the composition of the Orlando Pirates squad before the new campaign. The club’s decision to release or transfer 13 players, while bringing in nine new faces, has altered both the depth and make-up of the team.
The Buccaneers’ latest move has prompted debate among supporters, who have been invited to share their views on the club’s decisions through the comments section.
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