Orlando Pirates Confirm Departure of Deano van Rooyen

Orlando Pirates have quietly drawn a line under Deano van Rooyen’s time at the club, confirming the defender’s departure in a move that has raised eyebrows among the Buccaneers’ faithful.

The club announced on Friday that Van Rooyen is leaving by mutual consent after what they described as “open conversations” about his future and his desire to pursue a new chapter in his career.

In a formal statement, Pirates underlined that both parties agreed the timing was right for a clean break, framing the decision as an amicable parting rather than a forced exit.

Van Rooyen arrived in Soweto from Stellenbosch FC ahead of the 2024/25 season, carrying the reputation of being one of the Betway Premiership’s most reliable full-backs. He didn’t disappoint.

Whether thrown into the starting XI or asked to make an impact from the bench, the 27-year-old consistently delivered what the technical team demanded. The club highlighted his professionalism, noting that he “carried himself as a model professional” throughout his stay.

That spell produced over 50 appearances in Pirates colours, a solid return for a player who never shied away from the graft required on either flank.

Now, with the ink dry on his exit and no public indication yet of his next destination, Van Rooyen steps into that “new chapter” he pushed for — and Pirates are left to find out who fills the void of one of their most dependable full-backs.