Orlando Pirates have made the decision to terminate the contract of former Bafana Bafana captain Thulani Hlatshwayo.
Hlatshwayo joined the Soweto giants at the beginning of the 2020/2021 season and made 38 appearances in all seasons. However, he fell out of favour after a string of glaring errors, including a bad one in the Soweto derby against Kaizer Chiefs which saw him falling out of favour at club and international level where he was even stripped of the Bafana captaincy.
As a result, he made just 13 appearances in all competitions last season with Happy Jele, Ntsikelelo Nyauza and Olisa Ndah being preferred in the heart of defence.
And it is not a surprise the Buccaneers have parted ways with the 32-year-old considering the hefty wage he commands.
Hlatshwayo said: “My dream to wear the black and white jersey of Orlando Pirates has been fulfilled.
“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. This is something that I shared with Management.
“We had some positive talks (with Management) but with everything taken into careful consideration I have decided it’s the right time for me to leave the Club.
“I will forever be grateful to the Chairman and the Club 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.
“Finally, to the fans, I would personally like to thank you for all the support.”
