Former Pirates striker finds new home in the Middle East

Cameroon international striker Souaibou Marou has found a new home in the Middle East, joining Al Shabab Club in Bahrain after a disappointing spell at Orlando Pirates.

Marou’s move to Al Shabab comes just two months after he terminated his contract with the Soweto giants, despite having a year remaining on the deal.

The striker parted ways with Pirates as he grew frustrated with his lack of playing time, having joined the club as a highly-rated player from Cameroonian side Coton Sport in January last year.

Marou, who was part of the Cameroon squad at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, made only nine appearances for Pirates. Despite joining the club with high expectations, Marou struggled to break into the starting line-up under Jose Riveiro, who preferred to use Tshegofatso Mabasa, Zakhele Lepasa, Evidence Makgopa and occasionally Kermit Erasmus as his strikers.

The 23-year-old failed to score in any of his appearances in Pirates colours, and he has now penned a one-year deal with an extension option in the Bahraini Premier League with Al Shabab.

According to Pirates coach Riveiro, Marou struggled to adapt to life at the club initially but made progress towards the end of the 2023/24 season. The Spanish tactician uttered these words in February.

However, as revealed by the player’s agent, Mike Makaab, in a previous interview with FARPost, Marou was dissatisfied with his limited playing time at Pirates and sought a club where he could play regular football.

MAROU SEEKS FRESH START IN BAHRAIN

Marou, who was signed by Pirates from Coton Sport after scoring 21 goals in the previous season, will now have the opportunity to prove himself and revive his career at Al Shabab.

“Al Shabab signs a contract with Cameroonian player Souaibou Marou to represent the first football team in the new sports season 2024/2025,” reads the brief club statement.

The club will be hoping that Marou can rediscover his scoring touch in the Arabian Gulf League.

RELATED STORY: Orlando Pirates part ways with striker Souaibou Marou