- Ex-Mamelodi Sundowns winger Thembinkosi Lorch has officially joined Wydad Athletic on loan.
- Lorch moves to the Moroccan giants after a year with the PSL champions, reuniting with former coach Rulani Mokwena.
- Local fans on social media are buzzing, saying Lorch made the right choice to revive his career under Mokwena's guidance.
In a surprising twist for South African football, winger Thembinkosi Lorch has officially joined Morocco's Wydad Athletic on loan after departing PSL champions Mamelodi Sundowns. The move comes after a challenging year at Sundowns, where Lorch struggled to find his footing. Now, with a fresh start in Morocco, fans are hopeful this could be the turning point in his career.
Lorch has signed a six-month loan deal with Wydad Athletic, where he’ll reunite with former coach Rulani Mokwena. This marks an exciting chapter for both the player and the coach, who share a long history of collaboration and success. Fans are eager to see how this partnership unfolds on foreign soil.
Despite joining Sundowns with high expectations in January 2024, Lorch found it difficult to establish himself as a key player. Before signing with Wydad, he was rumored to be heading to Saudi Arabia. However, the Moroccan club ultimately sealed the deal, giving Lorch a chance to showcase his talent in a new league.
Read also:Theo And Vourne Kgosinkwersquos Hilarious Language Challenge
Thembinkosi Lorch Joins Wydad Athletic: A New Beginning
Check out the official unveiling of Lorch as a Wydad player in the video below:
Before his official unveiling, Lorch was spotted traveling to Morocco, accompanied by former Sundowns teammate Cassius Mailula, who is also now part of Wydad's squad. This reunion adds a layer of familiarity and comfort for Lorch as he adjusts to his new environment. Moreover, coach Rulani Mokwena, who brought Lorch to Sundowns earlier this year, is back in the mix, ready to guide the winger once again.
The bond between Lorch and Mokwena dates back to their time at Orlando Pirates, where the coach played a pivotal role in nurturing the winger's skills. Their partnership continued at Sundowns, where Mokwena led the team to league glory. Now, they’re set to take their collaboration to the next level in Morocco.
Upon his arrival, Lorch met with Wydad officials, signaling the start of his new adventure. Fans are excited to see how the player integrates into the team and contributes to their campaign.
Lorch and Mokwena Reunite: A Dynamic Duo in Morocco
Since taking the reins at Wydad, Rulani Mokwena faced initial challenges but has steadily earned the trust of local fans and players. Wydad, Morocco’s most decorated club, currently sits fourth in the Botolo Pro League, trailing log leaders RSB Berkane by 13 points. However, Mokwena’s side is on a three-match winning streak, creating momentum for the team.
With Lorch joining the squad, Mokwena gains a player who was once linked with PSL rivals Kaizer Chiefs. This addition could strengthen Wydad's attack and provide the coach with another creative option on the field. Fans are optimistic that this reunion will yield positive results for both the player and the club.
Read also:A Painful Memory When A Fathers Choices Left A Lasting Mark
Fans React: Support and Skepticism for Lorch's Move
The news of Lorch’s move to Wydad has sparked a wave of reactions from local football fans on social media. Many believe this is the perfect opportunity for the winger to revive his career under the guidance of his trusted coach, Rulani Mokwena. Others, however, remain skeptical about Lorch’s potential impact on the team.
Shotarh Mdlalose expressed his support:
“All the best Nyoso. This is your chance to shine.”
Vini Jn hopes for a permanent transfer:
“Congratulations Nyoso! I really hope Wydad can make this deal permanent. It’s great to see you working with Coach Mokwena again.”
Mohau Mofokeng sees this as a golden opportunity:
“This move could be exactly what Lorch needs to get his career back on track. Rulani and Mailula will help him settle in no time.”
Catherine Khumalo isn’t convinced:
“I think he’s overrated. He acted like he was a superstar at Sundowns, but he was just average.”
PapaBotlhale Phenyo Maimela believes Mokwena will make a difference:
“Under PEP Lite, Lorch is guaranteed more playing time. This could be exactly what he needs.”
Esii Sihle credits Mokwena for saving Lorch’s career:
“This guy owes Rulani his life. The coach literally saved his career.”
Saga Musiq is relieved Lorch didn’t join Chiefs:
“Thankfully, he didn’t go to Chiefs. This move could save his career.”
Jack Lamarr remains unimpressed:
“I hope Wydad knows they’re signing a social media star, not a footballer. Watch how many games he plays in the next few months. Sundowns did the right thing letting him go.”
Jakes Yung thinks Lorch deserves a chance:
“Good for him. He deserves some playing time. Let’s see what he can do.”
Nomfundo Ndlel admires Lorch’s talent:
“All the best, Lorch. You’re the best player in Africa—better than Themba Zwane.”
Relebohile Mofokeng Shows Respect for Thembinkosi Lorch
As reported by Briefly News, Orlando Pirates star Relebohile Mofokeng demonstrated his respect for Thembinkosi Lorch by customizing his shin guards with the winger’s image. Mofokeng’s unique tribute features a picture of him and Lorch celebrating in Pirates kits, paying homage to the former PSL Player of the Year. This gesture highlights the mutual respect between players and underscores Lorch’s lasting impact on South African football.
