Orlando Pirates star Karim Kimvuidi has spoken out about his recent loan switch to Israeli club FC Ashdod, a move officially confirmed by the Buccaneers on Thursday.
The Soweto giants’ statement offers clarity on the midfielder’s situation after he was recently spotted playing for the Israeli outfit.
There was confusion when Kimvuidi appeared for FC Ashdod in their 2-0 loss to Hapoel Tel Aviv FC earlier this week, as neither club had issued a statement. Pirates have since confirmed that the DR Congo-born star is on a season-long loan.
The deal, according to FC Ashdod, includes an option for a three-year permanent deal at the end of the campaign.
“Orlando Pirates Football Club can confirm the departure of Karim Kimvuidi, who joins FC Ashdod on a season-long loan deal with the option to buy at the end of the term,” reads the club statement.
KIMVUIDI EXCITED FOR “NEW CHALLENGE” IN ISRAEL
Kimvuidi’s new club, FC Ashdod, also announced the player’s arrival, stating, “After we got a glimpse of his abilities in the last game, Congolese midfielder Karim Kimvuidi signed in Ashdod until the end of the season on loan with an option to purchase for three additional years.”
The club further noted, “The 23-year-old attacking midfielder, who can also play on the wings, comes to us from Orlando Pirates, with whom he won trophies in the last two years in the top league in South Africa. He is the team’s new number 26.”
Kimvuidi, who joined Pirates from Maritzburg United [now Durban FC] in July 2023, has made 37 appearances for the Buccaneers, contributing three goals and one assist. However, he struggled to secure regular playing time under former head coach Jose Riveiro, starting only a handful of matches last season.
The player has since expressed his excitement about the move, stating he’s received a warm welcome at the Israeli Premier League club.
“Happy and excited for the new challenge that awaits me,” Kimvuidi said. “I have already gotten to know the players, the staff and the management, and I thank them for how they welcomed me here. I am very confident in my ability to help the team and am already waiting for the league to get underway.”
RELATED STORY: Marumo Gallants announce the signing of former Pirates midfielder