Ouaddou’s heartfelt farewell to departed Van Rooyen
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Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has paid tribute to Deano van Rooyen after his unexpected departure, hailing the right-back as a fantastic player. Photo: Gallo Images
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Ouaddou’s heartfelt farewell to departed Van Rooyen
Aug 24, 2026 – 03:14 pm
By Ernest Fakude
Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has paid a glowing tribute to defender Deano van Rooyen following his unexpected departure from the Soweto giants.
The club announced the exit of Van Rooyen last week after two years of service. The right-back joined the Buccaneers in 2024 following a successful spell with hometown club Stellenbosch FC, and has already been linked with a move back to the Winelands-based outfit.
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Van Rooyen’s departure comes after he fell behind Kamogelo Sebelebele in the pecking order at Pirates, with the defender now in search of regular game-time at his next club.
Ouaddou, speaking after the MTN8 semi-final clash against Sekhukhune United in Polokwane on Saturday, was full of praise for the 28-year-old both as a player and a person.
“Deano was a fantastic player as a sportsperson and as a human (being). He gave a lot to the club, he won a lot of trophies, and he gave joy to the fans, he gave joy to the club as well,” said Ouaddou.
“I think it’s part of life for the club to have some movements. So, the club and him, I think they found a way to continue his career in another club. I was very proud to work with him, and I just want to wish him all the best in his next project,” the lanky tactician added.
With Van Rooyen’s departure and Thabiso Lebitso having also joined Stellenbosch, the Buccaneers now have Sebelebele and Gamphani Lungu as the available options for the right-back position as they continue their campaign across multiple competitions.