Appollis heartbroken after Van Rooyen exit as Pirates lead PSL 2026

Orlando Pirates have parted ways with Deano van Rooyen after the defender made more than 50 appearances for the club. Pirates lead the 2026 South African Premier Soccer League with seven points from three matches, having won two and drawn one.

The departure has affected winger Oswin Appollis, who developed a close friendship with Van Rooyen during their time together at the Buccaneers. Appollis shared an emotional message on his Instagram story after the club and the defender agreed to end their relationship by mutual consent.

Van Rooyen joined Pirates from Stellenbosch FC before the 2024/25 season, having established himself as a consistent full-back. He was used both as a starter and substitute during his spell in Soweto, and the club regarded him as a professional who fulfilled his responsibilities.

His exit is another difficult moment for Appollis, who joined Pirates in July 2024. Relebohile Mofokeng, another close friend and teammate, recently moved to Belgian club Union Saint-Gilloise. Appollis also lost the regular presence of Jayden Adams after the conclusion of the FIFA World Cup; their friendship went back to their teenage years.

Van Rooyen’s departure also leaves Pirates with one recognised right-back in the squad, making that position an area the club needs to address. The defender’s next destination was not provided, while Pirates thanked him for his contribution and wished him well in the next chapter of his career.

Pirates’ league position remains strong despite a mixed five-match sequence of three defeats, one victory and one draw. Their league record is unbeaten, with six goals scored and one conceded, and their next fixture is against Sekhukhune United in the MTN8 on 22 August 2026.