Azola Tshobeni Bids Emotional Farewell to Orlando Pirates Ahead of Chippa United Move
After nearly a decade with Orlando Pirates, Azola Tshobeni has penned a heartfelt farewell to the club and its supporters as he prepares for a new chapter in his career with Chippa United. The 23-year-old midfielder, who rose through the ranks of the Buccaneers’ development system, is set to join the Gqeberha-based outfit on a permanent deal.
Tshobeni, who spent two seasons on loan at JDR Stars, found it difficult to secure regular game time in the Pirates first team, making just 11 senior appearances. Despite limited opportunities at the top level, his time at the club holds deep personal meaning — and his emotional message to the Soweto giants underscores the depth of his gratitude.
“After 9 incredible years at this club, the time has come for me to take the next step in my journey,” Tshobeni shared through his management agency, P Management. “It’s not an easy decision, especially considering all the memories and moments I’ve experienced here, but it’s one that feels right.”
He continued, “This club took me in as a young boy, nurtured me, and helped shape me into who I am today — not just as a player, but as a person, both on and off the pitch. For that, I will be forever grateful.”
In a tribute to everyone who played a role in his journey, Tshobeni expressed appreciation for the club hierarchy, technical team, and his teammates, saying: “To the Club, the Chairman, the incredible supporters, all the coaches — from development to the first team — and, most of all, to my teammates, who I’ve had the privilege of sharing a locker room with for all these years, I can’t thank you enough.”
Tshobeni’s heartfelt goodbye concluded with powerful words that captured his emotional connection to Pirates: “It’s been an honour to represent one of the biggest clubs on the continent for so long, especially at such a young age. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together, and I know my family shares that pride. But as much as this chapter has meant to me, it’s time for me to embrace new challenges and see the full extent of the potential I know I have. My blood is Red, my skin is black, and my bones are white. Thank you for everything.”
As Tshobeni departs, Orlando Pirates continue to reshape their midfield ahead of the new season, welcoming new additions including Sipho Mbule, Masindi Nemtajela, and Sinoxolo Kwayiba. The Buccaneers are set to kick off the 2025/26 campaign with an MTN8 quarter-final clash against Polokwane City on August 2.
For Tshobeni, the move to Chippa United offers a fresh start and the promise of more consistent minutes — a vital step for a player eager to prove his worth in the top flight of South African football.
