Pirates Transfer News: Bucs confirm shock exit on deadline day

Orlando Pirates have confirmed the exit of an international defender a couple of hours before the closure of the January transfer window.

The Buccaneers have been doing well in strengthening their squad as they work hard on their bid to win the Premier Soccer League this season. In the ongoing short window, they added Andre de Jong from Stelelnbosch, alongside the Marumo Gallants duo Daniel Msendami and Mpho Chabatsane.

Bucs have now confirmed Nigeria international Olisa Ndah has left the Soweto giants on a mutual consent. The towering centre-back who was signed by Bucs in 2021 has struggled for game time since recovering from his injury.

The exit of Mbekezeli Mbokazi was seen as a blessing in disguise for the Super Eagle, but it has not been the case. The only appearance for Ndah this season was in the 2-0 Black Label Cup win over the Carling All Stars team.

Pirates’ statement on Mbokazi’s exit

“Orlando Pirates Football Club can confirm that the Club has reached a mutual agreement with defender Olisa Ndah to part ways,” the club stated through their media team.

“The Nigerian international requested an early release from his contract, a decision that follows careful and respectful discussions between the player and the Club’s management. Central to these conversations was a shared understanding to afford Ndah the opportunity to secure regular game time elsewhere as he enters the next phase of his career.

Ndah, 28, joined the Buccaneers in 2021 and quickly established himself as a commanding presence at the heart of defence. Strong in the tackle, assured in possession and uncompromising in his commitment, he brought both steel and composure to the backline during a pivotal period for the Club,” they added.

“Over the course of more than 80 appearances at the Club, Ndah consistently embodied the values of Orlando Pirates. On the pitch, he was dependable and disciplined; off it, he was a model professional who represented the badge with distinction.

“The Club respects Ndah’s desire for increased minutes on the field and acknowledges his honest engagement with management throughout the process. It is in this spirit of mutual respect that an amicable decision was reached.

“Orlando Pirates Football Club would like to thank Olisa for his professionalism, dedication and service to the Club. We wish him every success in the next chapter of his career, both on a personal level and in his continued journey in the game,” Pirates concluded.