Hlatshwayo confirms Pirates exit

Orlando Pirates have confirmed they have parted ways with Thulani Hlatshwayo, ending a disappointing two-year stay for the former Bafana Bafana captain at his boyhood idols.

Hlatshwayo made just eight starts in all competitions last season and his exit will come as little surprise having fallen out of favour over the last 12 months. He arrived at the club from BidVest Wits ahead of the 2020-21 campaign.

“My dream to wear the black and white jersey of Orlando Pirates has been fulfilled,” he told the club’s website.

“When I came here, I said I wanted a trophy, and we were able to deliver on that mandate. Unfortunately, the second season didn’t work out the way I wanted it to, and this is what has informed my decision to request the club to grant me my wish of leaving because I still have a lot to give and a lot to offer in the field of play.

“We had some positive talks [with the club] but with everything taken into careful consideration I have decided it's the right time for me to leave.

“I will forever be grateful to the Chairman and the cub for granting me this wish. The club and I have always had a fantastic relationship, which will continue beyond my playing days.

“For me, today is a new chapter filled with many emotions. There’s a sense of pride, sadness and also optimism towards the future.”