Orlando Pirates part ways with injury-hit Super Eagles star

Orlando Pirates have confirmed the departure of Nigerian international defender Olisa Ndah, bringing an end to a three-and-a-half-year spell at the Soweto giants, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 28-year-old centre-back leaves the Premier Soccer League (PSL) club by mutual consent, despite still having time left on his contract.

Ndah joined the Buccaneers from NPFL side Akwa United in 2021 and quickly established himself as a reliable figure in the heart of defence.

However, a difficult year blighted by injuries restricted his involvement, and he has not featured at all this season. His last league appearance for the club came in September 2024, in a 3-0 victory over Polokwane City.

In a statement released on Thursday, the club explained the decision to part ways followed discussions between both sides.

“Orlando Pirates Football Club can confirm that the Club has reached a mutual agreement with defender Olisa Ndah to part ways,” the club said.”

The Nigerian international requested an early release from his contract, a decision that follows careful and respectful discussions between the player and the Club’s management. Central to these conversations was a shared understanding to afford Ndah the opportunity to secure regular game time elsewhere as he enters the next phase of his career.

“The Club respects Ndah’s desire for increased minutes on the field and acknowledges his honest engagement with management throughout the process. It is in this spirit of mutual respect that an amicable decision was reached.

“Orlando Pirates Football Club would like to thank Olisa for his professionalism, dedication, and service to the Club. We wish him every success in the next chapter of his career, both on a personal level and in his continued journey in the game,” the statement added.

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Ndah waves bye to Orlando Pirates

Ndah leaves Orlando Pirates as a free agent after agreeing to the termination of his contract, meaning he is free to join another club even if the January transfer window closes before he secures a move.

During his time in South Africa, the former Remo Stars defender made 81 appearances in all competitions, including the PSL, CAF Champions League, CAF Confederation Cup and domestic cups.

He started 73 of those games and scored once, finding the net against SuperSport United in the MTN8 in 2024. He also won the MTN8 Cup three times with the Buccaneers.

However, the emergence of younger defenders such as Mbokazi and Lebone Seema increased competition for places, and Ndah’s path back into the team looked increasingly difficult following his injury problems.

Ndah is now focused on finding a new club where he can play regularly and rebuild momentum in his career before the January window shuts.