Orlando Pirates coach explains Van Rooyen’s exit
· The South African
Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has shared his thoughts on the exit of Deano van Rooyen.
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The 29-year-old defender parted ways with the Buccaneers last week after two years with the Soweto giants. He is the third right-back to leave the club after winning four trophies with the Sea Robbers.
Van Rooyen leaves Pirates after two seasons
Following Pirates’ 1-0 win over Sekhukhune United in the MTN8 first leg semi-final, Ouaddou praised the former Stellenbosch FC captain.
“Deano was a fantastic player, in terms of sports and as a human,” he said, as per iDiski Times.
“He gave a lot to the club; he won a lot of trophies and gave joy to the fans; he gave joy to the club as well.”
Van Rooyen was a first choice right back for Pirates during the 2024/25 season but injuries and the signing of Kamogelo Sebelebele limited his game time last season. He played just 10 leage matches in the last campaign and was yet to make an appearance this season.
Ouaddou explained that both the club and the player agreed it was time to move elsewhere.
“I think it’s part of life for the club to have some movements. So, the club and him found a way to continue his career elsewhere,” Ouaddou added.
“I was very proud to work with him and want to wish him all the best for his next project.”
With Van Rooyen gone, Orlando Pirates have only one right-back this season as they look to navigate the league, cup competitions and the CAF Champions League.