Orlando Pirates mentor Abdeslam Ouaddou has opened up on Deano van Rooyen’s shock departure following the official confirmation of his exit from the Soweto giants.
The 29-year-old’s exit was confirmed by mutual consent on Friday, 21 August, after open discussions between both parties regarding his future.
Van Rooyen found regular game time hard to come by in Sea Robbers colours, failing to make a single competitive appearance this season.
Last season, the former Stellenbosch FC only managed to participate in just 14 matches across all competitions for the Buccaneers.
ABDESLAM OUADDOU PAYS TRIBUTE TO VAN ROOYEN
Speaking to journalists in Polokwane on Saturday following Pirates’ 1-0 victory over Sekhukhune United FC in the first leg of their MTN8 semi-final at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium, Ouaddou held nothing back in praising the defender’s professionalism and character.
“Well, Deano was a fantastic player, in terms of sports and as a human. He gave a lot to the club, he won a lot of trophies and gave joy to the fans, he gave joy to the club as well,” said Ouaddou.
The Moroccan mentor noted that player movements are a natural occurrence in professional football, emphasising that the decision was reached amicably to allow Van Rooyen to pursue regular playing time elsewhere.
“You know, I think it’s part of life for the club to have some movements. So, the club and him found a way to continue his career elsewhere. I was very proud to work with him and want to wish him all the best for his next project,” Ouaddou added.
Pirates now shift their focus back to the league as they host Sekhukhune at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Tuesday, 25 August, before the two sides clash again at the very same venue in the MTN8 semi-final second leg at the weekend.
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