Orlando Pirates say goodbye to Deano van Rooyen 

by Chumasande Matiwane

Orlando Pirates have confirmed the departure of defender Deano van Rooyen, bringing an end to his two-year spell with the Soweto giants. The Buccaneers announced early today that they had reached an agreement with van Rooyen to part ways by mutual consent.

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Deano van Rooyen closes a significant chapter

The club said the decision followed “open conversations” between the player and management, with both parties agreeing that it was the right time for the 29-year-old to begin a new chapter in his career.

Van Rooyen joined Pirates from Stellenbosch FC in August 2024 after establishing himself as one of the consistent fullbacks in the Betway Premiership. He signed a three-year contract with an additional two-year option at the time.

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The announcement comes after Pirates underwent significant squad changes during the build-up to the 2026/27 campaign. The club had already confirmed several departures, including Bandile Shandu, Sipho Mbule, Tshegofatso Mabasa, Karim Kimvuidi and Deivi Miguel Vieira following the conclusion of their contracts.

Pirates also announced the departures of seven other players in July as the club reshaped its squad ahead of the new season. Van Rooyen’s exit is therefore another notable change to the Pirates squad, although the circumstances differ from the earlier departures. In his case, the player and club agreed to terminate their relationship by mutual consent.

The defender now becomes available to pursue the next stage of his career, with Pirates yet to announce his destination.

Also see: Norway’s Sebastian Pedersen joins Orlando Pirates in an exciting new chapter 

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