“One of the fortunate kids”: Ndlondlo reflects on Pirates exit

Former Orlando Pirates midfielder, Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo, has addressed his departure from the club for the first time.

The Buccaneers confirmed the 30-year-old’s exit on Wednesday evening, just ahead of the 2025/26 PSL season, after his contract expired last month and was not extended.

Ndlondlo joined the Sea Robbers in 2022 from Marumo Gallants. During his tenure with the Happy People, he made over 60 appearances, contributing three goals and three assists. More significantly, he was part of a highly successful period, lifting five trophies: three MTN8 titles and two Nedbank Cup trophies.

Having been granted his clearance, Ndlondlo is now a free agent and can sign with any club of his choice.

In an emotional statement shared on his official Instagram account on Thursday, Ndlondlo broke his silence regarding his Pirates departure, extending heartfelt gratitude to the club’s leadership, staff, and teammates.

“From the bottom of my heart, I would like to take this opportunity and thank the chairman amongst the chairman and the whole Orlando Pirates family for giving me the opportunity of fulfilling the dream I had as a young kid of playing for the biggest team in the country,” Ndlondlo wrote.

“It’s not everyone that gets that opportunity and live that dream, but I was one of the fortunate kids.”

He continued by expressing appreciation for the platform provided, which allowed him to achieve his accomplishments and create “the best memories with the best and special group that turned into brothers.”

This included everyone from the staff, the kitchen mothers, and the groundskeepers at Rand and Orlando Stadium, to the “ever faithful fans and the people behind the team.”

Ndlondlo concluded with a poignant message: “You will forever be a part of me. Thank you to all that has supported throughout, and to my mates, I love you and you know the story. It was nice, and I wish you nothing but the best. You know the story that once and always.”