Ibrahim Bance leaves Marumo Gallants and begins search for new club

Ibrahim Bance has officially left Marumo Gallants and is now considering offers as a free agent after the highly rated midfielder ended his time with the club.

The 25-year-old’s contract expired on 30 June, although uncertainty had remained over his future because Gallants were understood to have held an option to extend the agreement for another season.

KickOff.com reported in June that Bance had already decided he wanted to leave, despite not having a firm offer from another club at that stage. The contractual matter between the player and Gallants has now been settled, with Bance confirming his departure in an emotional farewell message on Tuesday.

“One season. Memories. One family. Thank you to everyone at the club, management, staff, teammates, and supporters,” Bance wrote.

“Thank you for your trust, for the highs that made us dream, and for the lows that made us stronger.

“I wore this jersey with pride and with all my heart. Today I turn a page, but this club will forever remain a part of me.

“I wish you all the best for the future. May the club continue to grow.”

Bance was one of Gallants’ leading performers during the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season, establishing himself as a reliable and influential presence in midfield.

His performances attracted interest from clubs in South Africa and abroad. Orlando Pirates were among the teams reported to be monitoring the Ivorian, although they eventually decided to pursue alternative targets.

Bance has since returned home while he weighs up his next move. No decision has yet been made about where he will continue his career.

“The latest news is that Ibrahim is happy to have finally received his release letter and is now waiting for offers,” a source told this website.

“But I can say that he would like to stay in South Africa because he really loves the league and the excitement surrounding it.

“We will see what comes next because he is now a free agent. Any exciting opportunity, whether in South Africa or abroad, will be considered.”

His departure brings an end to a single season with Marumo Gallants, but his form in the latest campaign has ensured that he enters the transfer market with interest already established in his services.

Bance’s immediate priority is now to assess the proposals that arrive, with a move within South Africa remaining an attractive possibility. However, opportunities outside the country will also be considered as he begins the next stage of his career.