Orlando Pirates face creative gap after Patrick Maswanganyi’s Bahrain move

Orlando Pirates will miss Patrick Maswanganyi’s left-footed quality and attacking versatility after the midfielder completed a move to Alkhaldiya Sports Club in the Bahrain Premier League, according to former Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns defender Matthew Booth.

Pirates confirmed on Monday that they had agreed to sell Maswanganyi to the Bahrain-based club. The Buccaneers said the transfer had taken place at the player’s own request.

Maswanganyi, who was born in Tembisa, leaves Orlando Pirates after establishing himself as one of the club’s most influential attacking players. He made 120 appearances in all competitions, scoring 28 goals and providing 21 assists.

His contribution helped the Soweto club win six domestic trophies during his time in black and white, making him an important part of Pirates’ recent success.

Booth believes the player’s greatest asset was the different dimension he brought as a natural left-footer, particularly when operating from a central attacking position or drifting into wider areas.

“His most important characteristic is that he is a lefty (left-footer),” Booth said on SuperSportTV.

“Kind of like left-footed centre-backs, they are like hens’ teeth

“We are lucky enough to have good through a boost in that regard of left-footed centre-backs, but a lefty brings such a different dynamic to the attack. He loves to drop out wide and was able to bring in crosses with his left foot, swinging on the inside.

“His best is strongest when he tucks into that number 10 position, that opened up his left foot for those side passes, his little trickery and mastery and getting the players in front of him.

“It depends what they have got up their sleeve because they have done a helluva job in terms of recruitment over the last couple of years, and again, the market is still open so who knows what’s to come.”

Maswanganyi’s ability to move away from the centre, deliver crosses with his left foot and then cut inside gave Pirates a range of attacking options. Booth also pointed to his effectiveness in the number 10 role, where his passing, close control and creativity allowed him to bring teammates into the game.

The departure leaves Orlando Pirates with fewer established choices in the attacking midfield department. Relebohile Mofokeng has also left the club, meaning Kabelo Dlamini is now the only recognised primary attacking midfielder in the squad.

Oswin Appollis and Andre De Jong have previously been used in that position, although it remains to be seen whether Pirates will rely on them or add another player before the transfer window closes.

Booth said the club’s recruitment record in recent seasons offered some encouragement, with the market still open and the possibility of further additions remaining.

Orlando Pirates are scheduled to face Babina Noko at Orlando Amstel Arena on Tuesday evening.