Chippa United sign Burkina Faso midfielder Ibrahim Bance after Marumo Gallants exit

Chippa United have completed the signing of highly rated Burkina Faso midfielder Ibrahim Bance following the expiry of his contract with Marumo Gallants.

The 25-year-old joins the Eastern Cape club after a spell with Gallants, where he became the subject of interest from several clubs. His move was first reported by iDiski Times before Chippa United confirmed the deal on Friday afternoon.

Bance began his career with Ivorian club ASEC Mimosas and has since played in Sweden, the United States and South Africa. His previous clubs include Helsingborgs IF and Real Monarchs, before he moved to South Africa to join Marumo Gallants, also known as Bahlabane Ba Ntwa.

Chippa United said the midfielder had chosen the club as the next step in his career despite attracting attention from elsewhere.

“CHIPPA UNITED WELCOMES IBRAHIM BANCE

“Chippa United Football Club is pleased to announce the signing of highly rated Burkinabe midfielder Ibrahim Bance.

“The 25 year old joins the Chilli Boys following his spell with Marumo Gallants. Despite attracting interest from several clubs, Bance chose Chippa United as the next destination in his career.

“A strong and composed presence in central midfield, he brings valuable experience from playing in South Africa, Cote d’Ivoire, Sweden and the United States. He has also represented Burkina Faso at senior international level.

“We are confident that his physicality, work rate and ability to control the midfield will add strength and balance to our squad.

“Welcome to the pride of the Eastern Cape

The signing strengthens Chippa United’s midfield with a player whose career has included football in four countries. The club highlighted Bance’s physical presence, work rate and composure as qualities that could improve the balance of their squad.

Bance has also represented Burkina Faso at senior international level, adding international experience to his club career in Africa, Europe and North America.

The move brings his time with Marumo Gallants to an end and sees him remain in South African football with Chippa United. The Chilli Boys described him as a highly rated addition as they welcomed him to what they called “the pride of the Eastern Cape”.

The announcement followed reports that Bance was closing in on a new move after leaving Gallants. Chippa United ultimately secured his signature after his previous contract ran out.

The transfer was announced by the club on Friday afternoon, confirming Bance as their latest addition following his time with Marumo Gallants.