Orlando Pirates have confirmed the departure of defender Deano van Rooyen after the club and player agreed to part ways by mutual consent.
The 29-year-old right-back joined the Buccaneers from Stellenbosch FC in August 2024, signing a three-year contract with an option for a further two years.
Van Rooyen arrived at Pirates after spending eight years at Stellenbosch, where he rose through the ranks and established himself as one of the club's key defenders. His performances earned him a Bafana Bafana call-up in 2025, and he made his international debut against Mozambique and Tanzania.
However, his time at Orlando Pirates became increasingly difficult. After injury problems affected his start to the 2025/26 campaign, he struggled to reclaim a regular starting position.
The uncertainty surrounding his future intensified during the current transfer window. Van Rooyen was left out of Pirates' matchday squads for their opening Betway Premiership fixtures against Milford FC, AmaZulu and Chippa United.
His departure now brings an end to a two-year spell with the Soweto giants.
Van Rooyen leaves Pirates having experienced the pressure of competing for a place in one of South Africa's biggest clubs, while also reaching the highest level of his international career with Bafana Bafana.
The defender's next destination has yet to be confirmed.
