Benedict Vilakazi: Thembinkosi Lorch's Move to Sundowns Sparks Reaction from Former Pirates Star

• Benedict Vilakazi never thought Thembinkosi Lorch would leave the Orlando Pirates
• The 30-year-old midfielder signed for Mamelodi Sundowns on transfer deadline day
• 'Nyoso' made the transfer two months after being suspended by the club for assault

Former Orlando Pirates midfielder Benedict Vilakazi has shared his insights on Thembinkosi Lorch's unexpected move to Mamelodi Sundowns.

Lorch, a key player for the Buccaneers for nine years, made the shock transfer just two months after being suspended by the club for assault.

Vilakazi, expressing his astonishment, acknowledged Lorch's significance for Pirates and highlighted Mamelodi Sundowns' competition with Pirates for the league title.

"I am shocked that Orlando Pirates have allowed their key player to join their rivals. I'm not saying it's a bad move, I'm just saying I didn't see it coming. None of us saw this coming," Vilakazi said, as quoted by The South African.

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Speculating on the reasons behind Lorch's move, Vilakazi mentioned ongoing rumours about the player's desire to go overseas.

Lorch, linked to a move abroad, finalized his transfer to the Brazilians on the January transfer deadline day.

Coach Rhulani Mokwena's team anticipates Lorch's contribution, expecting additional creativity and dynamism for the second half of the season.

In a recent interview, Lorch shared his excitement about joining the team.

"I look forward to working with them and contributing to the team's success here at Sundowns," said Lorch, as reported by Goal.

He acknowledged the difficulty of leaving Orlando Pirates but stressed that the move was crucial in his career.

Pirates fans are still coming to terms with losing their 'breadwinner'.

Lorch was affectionately given the moniker, but it is likely to have been revoked after what could be seen as a betrayal of the club's loyalty. He had become a key figure in Jose Riveiro's attack, who must now search for a replacement.

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Lorch, commonly known as 'Nyoso,' is gearing up for Sundowns' upcoming league match against Golden Arrows on February 14.

He expressed his commitment to giving his best for the team and thanked the loyal Sandawana supporters for their continued support.

Thembinkosi Lorch bids emotional farewell to Orlando Pirates

Sports Brief recently reported that Thembinkosi Lorch bid an emotional goodbye to Orlando Pirates.

The attacker made an unexpected transfer deadline day move to league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.

He thanked Dr Irvin Khoza and coach Jose Riveiro for the memories in his farewell message.