New Pirates Midfielder Pens Emotional Farewell To Stellenbosch Fans
New Orlando Pirates midfielder Sihle Nduli has written a heartfelt farewell to Stellenbosch supporters after his departure from the club, stating they will “remain in my heart.”
Nduli officially leaves Stellenbosch at the end of the month upon the expiration of his contract, having spent the last three seasons with the Cape Winelands team.
He has joined Pirates as a free agent and has already gone through the medical.
The 29-year-old made 104 appearances across all competitions—one of only 10 players to reach a century of appearances for the club. He was also a key part of the squad that won the 2023 Carling Knockout trophy.
During his time at Stellenbosch, the KwaZulu-Natal-born midfielder scored two goals, including the winning goal that saw Stellies beat Egyptian side Zamalek in Cairo in the CAF Confederation Cup semi-final last season.
Stellenbosch will compete in the CAF second-tier tournament again next season after finishing third last term.
“I want to thank the whole Stellenbosch family for the great hospitality over the past few years,” Nduli said. “Words cannot describe how grateful I am.
“To the fans, I just want to say you guys are the best. I can’t thank you enough for the love and support you gave me on and off the field during my time with Stellenbosch FC.
“If it wasn’t for your support, we as the players would never have achieved what we have. I love you all, and you will always remain close to my heart.”
Nduli follows Deano van Rooyen, who also left Stellenbosch to join Pirates at the start of last season.
The 29-year-old is one of eight players Pirates have signed ahead of next season, including Yanela Mbuthuma and Nkosikhona Ndaba (both from Richards Bay), Masindi Nemtajela (Marumo Gallants), Tshepang Moremi (AmaZulu), Sinoxolo Kwayiba (Chippa United), and Tshepo Mashiloane (Baroka).
These players join Sipho Mbule, who was signed from Mamelodi Sundowns, and new coach Abdelsam Ouddou.
