Thembinkosi Lorch bids emotional Wydad farewell

South African superstar Thembinkosi Lorch has officially closed his chapter in Morocco, penning a heart-wrenching farewell to Wydad AC as he prepares to touch down in Libya to join giants Al Ittihad.

The 32-year-old playmaker’s move was confirmed last month, but in a show of ultimate professionalism, “Nyoso” remained in Casablanca to honour two crucial CAF Confederation Cup fixtures before packing his bags.

Lorch’s final bow for the Moroccan powerhouse came on Sunday in a disappointing 2-1 defeat to AS Maniema Union. Despite the result, the former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns talisman leaves with his head held high after a storied stint in North Africa.

‘AN HONOUR AND A PRIVILEGE’ – LORCH ON PLAYING FOR WYDAD

 

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Taking to social media to address the Wydad faithful, the former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns star didn’t hold back on the emotions, describing his time with the club as a highlight of his career.

“Wearing the Wydad shirt has been a true honour and privilege,” Lorch stated. “The experiences, lessons, and friendships I’ve gained will stay with me for the rest of my career and my life. To the fans; thank you for your incredible passion and unwavering support. Your energy made every match special.”

The Bafana Bafana international extended his gratitude to the club’s management and technical team, noting that Wydad “will always feel like home.”

AL ITTIHAD AWAIT, WYDAD FIND REPLACEMENT

Lorch now heads to Tripoli to join Al Ittihad, where he is expected to be the focal point of their attacking prowess. The Libyan side has been desperate for a creative spark of his calibre as they look to dominate domestic and continental competition.

Wydad, meanwhile, has wasted no time in filling the void left by the South African. The club has secured the services of 18-year-old Bolivian sensation Moisés Paniagua
. The versatile attacker arrives from Always Ready with a growing reputation and five senior international caps already to his name.

While Paniagua represents the future for Wydad, the departure of Lorch marks the end of a significant partnership between one of Mzansi’s finest exports and one of Africa’s most iconic clubs.