Lorch secures permanent move to Wydad AC

Wydad Athletic Club have officially announced the permanent signing of South African winger Thembinkosi Lorch, following a successful loan spell with the club.

The deal brings an end to weeks of speculation surrounding the former Mamelodi Sundowns star’s future.

Lorch, 32, has reportedly signed a two-year contract, committing his future to the Moroccan giants ahead of the 2025/26 season.

The Bafana Bafana international’s loan to Wydad was facilitated by then-head coach Rulani Mokwena, the same coach who had previously signed him for Sundowns from Orlando Pirates in January 2024.

Lorch’s transfer to the Moroccan club was widely seen as an effort to get his career back on track after struggling for playing time in Sundowns’ competitive squad. He proved to be a valuable asset to Wydad, making a significant impact with his creative dribbling and goal-scoring abilities.

A key highlight of his time with Wydad was his impressive performance at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, where he notably scored against Italian powerhouse Juventus and put in a top display against English side Manchester City.

The transfer makes Lorch one of many players to exit Mamelodi Sundowns this window, joining a list that includes the likes of Rivaldo Coetzee, Sipho Mbule, and Lebohang Maboe. The Brazilians are also facing potential further departures as Khuliso Mudau and Lucas Ribeiro Costa’s futures remain uncertain amid talks of moves away from the club.

Welcome back Thembinkosi Lorch ! ❤👊#DimaWydad pic.twitter.com/sA83u9i7Ps

— Wydad Athletic Club (@WACofficiel) August 22, 2025