Wydad Athletic Club part ways with Thembinkosi Lorch after failing to meet Mamelodi Sundowns demands

Wydad Athletic Club has confirmed the departure of Thembinkosi Lorch ahead of the 2025/26 season.

The South African winger joined the Moroccan giants on loan from Mamelodi Sundowns in January 2025, during the tenure of his former coach Rulani Mokwena.

Lorch quickly became a fan favourite, particularly shining at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.

His standout performances against elite clubs like Manchester City and Juventus, including a goal in the tournament, earned widespread praise.

Following Wydad’s early exit from the competition, the club expressed interest in making Lorch’s move permanent before his loan expired on July 31.

However, negotiations hit a snag as Sundowns reportedly rejected Wydad’s initial offer, reportedly seeking a €1 million transfer fee.

In the meantime, Wydad have moved swiftly to bolster their midfield by signing Congolese midfielder Joseph Bakasu from Miniama on a four-year contract.

Unless Wydad manage to reopen talks and agree on a permanent deal with Sundowns, Lorch—affectionately known as Nyoso—will return to his parent club ahead of the new campaign.