Thembinkosi Lorch has parted ways with Orlando Pirates to join Mamelodi Sundowns, a move driven by Sundowns’ aspirations to conquer the CAF Champions League and vie for the FIFA Club World Cup in 2025. The announcement came from Pirates on Friday, followed by Sundowns confirming the acquisition on Saturday.
The departure was the result of discussions between Pirates Chairman Dr. Irvin Khoza and the Mamelodi Sundowns leadership. Pirates expressed gratitude to Lorch, affectionately known as “Nyoso,” for his substantial contributions, acknowledging his role in shaping the club’s history.
Lorch, a former player for Maluti FET College, Cape Town All Stars, and Chippa United, conveyed mixed emotions about leaving Pirates after scoring 34 goals in 176 matches, which included appearances in the MTN8, Nedbank Cup, and earning the prestigious PSL Player of the Year titles.
In his first words addressing the Kabo Yellow fans, Lorch, a Bafana Bafana attacker, shared his enthusiasm for joining Sundowns, expressing that playing for such a team had always been a personal aspiration. He conveyed happiness about the move and eagerly anticipated joining his new teammates, signing off by proclaiming his pride in being part of the Sundowns family.
With the backdrop of Sundowns’ ambitions for continental and global success, Lorch’s transfer marks a significant chapter in his career, leaving behind a legacy at Orlando Pirates while embracing new challenges and opportunities in the pursuit of further sporting achievements.