Former Pirates striker Tshegofatso Mabasa joins Moroccan champions Maghreb of Fez

Tshegofatso Mabasa has been unveiled by Moroccan champions Maghreb of Fez after signing a three-year contract with the Botola Pro club.

The 29-year-old South African forward became a free agent after leaving Orlando Pirates at the end of last season and had attracted interest from several clubs. Maghreb of Fez, also known as Mas Fes, ultimately secured his signature and officially presented him on Friday evening.

Mabasa had been linked with a move to a number of teams in recent weeks, including Pyramids, Wydad AC, Raja CA and Kaizer Chiefs. However, he will continue his career in Fez as Maghreb of Fez strengthen their squad ahead of their campaign in the CAF Champions League.

The Moroccan champions have been long-term admirers of Mabasa and have now committed to the striker for the next three years. His arrival gives the club an experienced forward with a substantial record in South African domestic football.

Mabasa left Orlando Pirates as a popular figure among the club’s supporters. He finished his time with the Soweto club only eight goals short of Benedict ‘Tso’ Vilakazi’s record as Pirates’ all-time leading scorer.

During his career with Pirates, Bloemfontein Celtic, Sekhukhune United, Moroka Swallows and Stellenbosch FC, Mabasa has scored 74 goals and provided 11 assists in 249 appearances.

His spell at Pirates also included six trophies and one Lesley Manyathela Golden Boot award. The honour reflected his status as one of the leading scoring forwards in the domestic game, while his overall record helped make him a clear fan favourite before his departure.

The move to Maghreb of Fez represents the next stage of Mabasa’s career after his departure from Pirates generated widespread interest. Although several clubs were credited with pursuing him, the Botola Pro side won the race for his services.

Mabasa will now begin a new chapter in Morocco, with Maghreb of Fez preparing to compete in the CAF Champions League. The club’s decision to hand him a three-year deal underlines its intention to make him part of its plans as it builds a squad capable of competing domestically and in continental football.

His transfer also brings an end to the uncertainty surrounding his next destination following the conclusion of last season. After considering approaches from clubs in South Africa and elsewhere, Mabasa has chosen to continue his career with the Moroccan champions.

The striker’s record across his five South African clubs will now form the basis of his new challenge in Fez. Maghreb of Fez will be hoping the player known as ‘Sniper’ can reproduce the goalscoring form that produced 74 goals over 249 games and helped establish him as one of the most recognisable forwards in the country.