Bandile Shandu has sent a heartfelt parting message to the Orlando Pirates family, pouring his heart out just days after parting ways with the club.
Shandu parted ways with Pirates, who opted against offering him a new contract, with his existing deal expiring on the 30th of June 2026.
The talented wing-back is leaving Pirates after spending five years at Mayfair, having joined the Soweto giants in July 2021 as a free agent from Maritzburg United, who are now known as Durban City FC.
In his final season at Pirates, Shandu struggled for regular playing minutes under head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. The right-back battled with injuries and tough competition, among other things, limiting his contribution on the pitch.
During the 2025/26 season, Ouaddou preferred Kamogelo Sebelebele at right-back position while Thabiso Lebitso and Deano Van Rooyen also had their fair share of minutes.
Shandu is leaving Pirates after registering over 100 appearances across all competitions with 11 goals and 13 assists under his name.
The 31-year-old will leave Pirates alongside other notable names such as Sipho Mbule, Karim Kimvuidi, Gilberto, Tshegofatso Mabasa and Thabiso Lebitso, who will sign with Stellenbosch FC in a swap deal that will see Mthetheleli Mthiyane heading in the opposite direction.
WHAT BANDILE SHANDU SAID ABOUT ORLANDO PIRATES EXIT
Reflecting on his spell at Orlando Pirates, Shandu penned a heartfelt farewell to thank the club’s management, teammates and the supporters.
“As I close this chapter of my life, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude for a club that has been my home for the past five years. This journey has shaped me not only as a player but, more importantly, as a person. I leave with nothing but cherished memories and immense pride in what we have achieved together,” Shandu said on Instagram.
“It’s impossible not to reflect on the journey. Over five years with the club, we secured an incredible collection of silverware – two Nedbank Cup trophies, four MTN8 titles, one Carling Knockout Cup, and a Betway Premiership title. On the continental stage, we reached the final of the 2021/22 CAF Confederation Cup, finishing as runners-up, and I was honored to end the tournament as the third-highest goal scorer.
“What a humbling journey it has been alongside such talented teammates and an exceptional technical staff. There is something deeply fulfilling about walking the path that God has intended for you – truly, what an honor, and what a God-filled five years it has been.
SHANDU THANKS HIS FORMER TEAMMATES FOR UNFORGETTABLE MEMORIES
“To the management and coaching staff, thank you for your unwavering support and for constantly pushing me to grow – both as an athlete and as an individual. I will carry every lesson learned with me into the future.
“To my teammates, thank you for an incredible five years. We have created unforgettable memories and built genuine, lasting bonds. I wish each of you nothing but success – continue to represent the badge with pride, both on and off the pitch.
“To the supporters, thank you for your staunch loyalty, your electrifying presence, and the energy you brought to every match day. You made this journey even more special. I wish the club continued success in the years ahead. Thank you once again for everything.”
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