‘Ouaddou is here to destroy Pirates, turning it to Gallants! Van Rooyen, Sesane, is Lebitso next?’

Orlando Pirates made a surprising decision, parting ways with experienced right-back Deano van Rooyen.

The 29-year-old joined the Buccaneers from Stellenbosch FC in August 2024, having established himself as a standout performer with the Cape Winelands side. But his tenure with the Soweto giants was hampered by persistent injuries that significantly limited his playing time.

Increased competition within the squad, particularly following the arrival of players like Kamogelo Sebelebele, also impacted his opportunities. On Friday morning, the club announced that his time at the Sea Robbers had concluded.

Have a look at what the fans are saying as sampled by Afrik-Foot.

Van Rooyen asked Bucs to release him

Orlando Pirates will release all the players and will only be left with Yanela Mbuthuma. Soon, “Thank you to all our fans; this is the end of the road –  Mpho Masemene

He asked the club to release him because he wasn’t happy with his game time situation –  Ofe Ntse 

This one might get signed by Mamelodi Sundowns, especially after Khuliso Mudau’s injury – Musa M Meiwa 

As a Mamelodi Sundowns fan, I thank you, Orlando Pirates, for releasing the boy. It wasn’t easy for us – Bawito Macaiele 

This Abdeslam Ouaddou is here to destroy Orlando Pirates. Thabiso Sesane, Deano van Rooyen, who’s next? Thabitso Lebitso? – Macdonald Makweya

Wadu, Mokwena 2.0?

Abdeslam Ouaddou is doing his best to destroy Jose Riveiro’s foundation. I did say that this coach is Rulani Mokoena 2.0 – Mokitimi Boss Elvis

As much as Orlando Pirates sign players, they have to release others. It’s just business – Giftremo Isacks 

 Last time I checked, he was rated as one of your top players. North African teams are going to cook you boys; I don’t see you making it out of the group stage – Mahlatse Rm

Wadu is turning Orlando Pirates into Marumo Gallants. The plumber himself – Moses Budah Moscow

Thank you, Orlando Pirates, for releasing him, painful as this may be, but players need to go where they can play football, which is what brought them here – Thami Ramaila Mashele