The 28-year-old’s future had been uncertain after he was omitted from Pirates’ squad for Saturday’s clash with Sekhukhune United, but the club have now confirmed that Maswanganyi is set to continue his career overseas.
Pirates said the player’s departure came after discussions with him and his representatives, with Maswanganyi making it clear that he wanted to pursue a new opportunity outside South Africa.
“Maswanganyi remained an important part of the technical team’s plans for the season. However, following discussions with the player and his representatives, he expressed a clear desire to pursue a new opportunity abroad,” Pirates said.
The Soweto giants added that they respected his wishes and chose not to stand in the way of his move.
“In recognition of his service to the Club and his ambitions for the next chapter of his career, Orlando Pirates agreed not to stand in his way. A transfer was subsequently concluded with Al Khaldiya Sports Club,” continued the statement.
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Maswanganyi joined Pirates in 2022 and went on to establish himself as a popular figure among the club’s supporters. He was also named the Players’ Player of the Season for 2023/24 and leaves as a league champion after winning eight trophies during his time with the Buccaneers.
His departure nevertheless represents a significant change to Ouaddou’s attacking options, particularly with Pirates competing in the Betway Premiership and MTN8 while preparing for their CAF Champions League campaign.
Maswanganyi is also the third Pirates playmaker to leave for an overseas club during the current transfer window, following Relebogile Mofokeng and Sipho Mbule.