Oswin Appollis has paid an emotional tribute to Deano Van Rooyen following the defender’s departure from Orlando Pirates, ending another close friendship at the Buccaneers.
The departure appears to have hit Appollis particularly hard, with the two players developing a close relationship during their time together at the club.
Van Rooyen joined Pirates from Stellenbosch FC ahead of the 2024/25 season, while Appollis arrived at the Buccaneers in July 2024. The pair quickly became close both on and off the pitch.
Appollis sends emotional message
Following confirmation that Van Rooyen and Pirates had agreed to part ways by mutual consent, Appollis took to Instagram to acknowledge his friend’s exit.
The Bafana Bafana winger simply wrote: “My Bru ❤️”, alongside a message for the departing defender.
It was a short but emotional reaction that highlighted the bond the two players had formed at Pirates.
Van Rooyen’s exit is another difficult moment for Appollis, who has seen several players close to him move on in recent months.
Another friend leaves Appollis
Earlier, Appollis also saw Relebohile Mofokeng leave Pirates for Belgian club Union Saint-Gilloise.
The winger has also shared a close friendship with Jayden Adams, adding to the recent changes around his circle of teammates and friends.
While footballers regularly move between clubs, the departures can be particularly difficult when strong friendships have been built away from the pitch.
Pirates now have a right-back problem
Van Rooyen’s departure isn’t only an emotional blow for Appollis — it also creates a significant squad issue for Pirates.
The Buccaneers are now left with just one recognised right-back, meaning the club may need to strengthen the position before the transfer window closes.
Pirates confirmed that Van Rooyen’s exit was agreed by mutual consent following discussions between the player and club.
The defender joined from Stellenbosch and went on to make more than 50 appearances for the Buccaneers.
The club described him as a model professional and thanked him for his contribution before wishing him well for the next chapter of his career.
Who replaces Van Rooyen?
That is now the big question for Pirates.
With Van Rooyen gone and the Buccaneers competing on multiple fronts, finding adequate cover at right-back could quickly become a priority.
The club could turn to its existing options, but a new signing would provide additional depth and competition.
For Appollis, however, the immediate focus will be saying goodbye to another close friend.
Will Pirates sign a replacement for Van Rooyen, or will they trust their current squad?
