Olisa Ndah’s spell at Orlando Pirates has come to an end, with the Nigerian centre-back becoming the latest defender to leave the Soweto giants amid a period of transition at the back.
His exit follows closely after MbekezeIi Mbokazi’s move to Chicago Fire in Major League Soccer, further reshaping Pirates’ defensive options midway through the season.
Ndah leaves the Buccaneers as a free agent after reaching an agreement with the club to terminate his contract during the January transfer window.
The timing of the decision means the 28-year-old will retain the freedom to sign for a new club even after the window closes, a significant factor as he looks to revive regular first-team football.
For a player who once anchored Pirates’ defence, the move reflects a pragmatic response to changing circumstances rather than a sudden rupture.
Competition for places had intensified in recent months, with the rise of Mbokazi before his departure and the growing prominence of Lebone Seema reducing Ndah’s minutes. Even Mbokazi’s exit failed to reopen the door.
Head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou opted for Nkosinathi Sibisi alongside Seema in last weekend’s clash with Sekhukhune United, leaving Ndah sidelined once again and underlining his diminished role in the squad.
In a statement, Orlando Pirates confirmed that the defender had requested an early release following “careful and respectful discussions” with management.
Central to the talks was a shared recognition that Ndah required consistent playing time elsewhere as he entered a new phase of his career. The club framed the decision as one rooted in mutual understanding rather than necessity.
Ndah joined Pirates in 2021 and quickly established himself as a commanding presence in central defence. Across four seasons, he made 81 appearances in all competitions, starting 73 matches and scoring once, a memorable strike against SuperSport United in the 2024 MTN8.
However, two serious injuries disrupted his momentum, and he was unable to fully reclaim his place thereafter.
Pirates paid tribute to Ndah’s professionalism, describing him as dependable and disciplined on the pitch and a model representative of the club off it.
