Stellenbosch has confirmed that Ismail Toure has left the club to join UAE Pro League side Baniyas.

This move was first reported by Sportswire, which linked Toure, who joined Stellies from Marumo Gallants in 2023, with a transfer to the Middle East.

The Ivory Coast defender, who had two outstanding seasons with the club, has now officially departed.

“Toure leaves Stellenbosch after two successful seasons in which he made 76 appearances across all competitions, helping the club win the Carling Knockout in 2023, reach the MTN8 final in 2024, and progress to the CAF Confederation Cup semi-final earlier this year,” Stellenbosch said in a statement.

“The Ivorian centre-back famously scored the equalizing goal in the aforementioned Knockout final against TS Galaxy as Stellies went on to win their first-ever top-flight trophy at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, cementing his status in the club’s folklore. Everyone at Stellenbosch FC would like to thank Ismaël for his service to the club and wish him well as he embarks on the next chapter of his career in the United Arab Emirates.”

Toure’s departure doesn’t come as a surprise, as he had expressed a desire to leave the club even before the start of last season, which led to him missing the first few matches. He told Sportswire last year in Durban that he wanted to play abroad.