Orlando Pirates have admitted they were disappointed with Terrence Dzvocamanga’s shock move to Supersport United.
The Pirates confirmed they had allowed the striker to join SuperSport United after the club approached them yesterday. However, Pirates expressed their disappointment with the move and accused Dzvocamanga of cheating.
The club says it has appealed to the club to release him to play in his native Zimbabwe, to be close to his family. Dzvukamanja did not need to be deceived into leaving the Bucs as he was a free agent after his contract with the club expired in June.
It is said that the Buccaneers were keen to extend his stay as they wanted to include him in their CAF Champions League squad.
“Dzvocamanga has approached the club requesting his release to play in Zimbabwe to be closer to home in order to address urgent family matters,” a club statement read.
After consideration, the club offered to pay his salary while settling his personal problems at home. The club agreed to this on humanitarian grounds.
“As part of the club’s commitment to the well-being of players, Orlando Pirates make an effort, wherever possible, to accommodate players’ requests in conditions conducive to, among other things, their mental health.
The club was therefore surprised by SuperSport United’s approach to the player’s services since the club had made plans to include the player in the CAF Champions League squad.
“With this new development, the club will release Dzvukamanja to SuperSport United.”
The 29-year-old is now reunited with boss Gavin Hunt, having worked together at Bidvest Wits.
Dzvocamanga had developed into Pirates’ main striker under Jose Rivero after struggling in the first half of the 2022/23 season, scoring eight goals in all competitions, including the winner in the Nedbank Cup final.
SuperSport is also trying to sign Etiosa Ighodaro as a replacement for Tamsanca Gabausa, who has already left the club.
Meanwhile, Matsatsantsa A. Petori also confirmed that Eric Mathuho, who was training with them, would not be signed and had already left the club.