Shock exit: Pirates part ways with Nigerian defender

The marriage between Orlando Pirates and Olisa Ndah has come to a premature end. On Thursday, just hours before the close of the transfer window, the Soweto giants announced they have mutually agreed to part ways with the Nigerian international.

It brings the curtain down on a three-year stint that began with immense promise in 2021 but has recently been stifled by injury woes and a subsequent lack of minutes on the pitch.

The 28-year-old centre-back has found himself on the periphery of Jose Riveiro’s squad this season. Despite returning to fitness before the recent Africa Cup of Nations break, Ndah has not featured in a single competitive match for the Buccaneers in the current campaign, with his only run-out coming in the Carling Black Label Cup.

According to the club, the separation was driven by the player’s desire to get back to playing football.

“The Nigerian international requested an early release from his contract, a decision that follows careful and respectful discussions between the player and the Club’s management,” Pirates said in an official statement.

“Central to these conversations was a shared understanding to afford Ndah the opportunity to secure regular game time elsewhere as he enters the next phase of his career.”

Crucially, because the termination was finalised on Thursday, Ndah is now a free agent. This means he is not bound by the transfer window deadline and can sign with a new club immediately, or even after the window slams shut on Thursday night.

A Commanding Spell By Ndah at Pirates

When fit, Ndah was often one of the first names on the team sheet. Over the course of more than 80 appearances, he became known for his calmness on the ball and his ability to read the game—traits that endeared him to The Ghost.

The club paid tribute to his contribution, noting that he brought “steel and composure” to the backline during a pivotal transition period for the side.

“Over the course of more than 80 appearances at the Club, Ndah consistently embodied the values of Orlando Pirates. On the pitch, he was dependable and disciplined; off it, he was a model professional who represented the badge with distinction,” the club statement read.

“The Club respects Ndah’s desire for increased minutes on the field and acknowledges his honest engagement with management throughout the process.”

The exit clears a spot in the Pirates foreign quota and defensive roster, while Ndah begins the search for a new home where he can once again be a weekly regular.