Orlando Pirates have confirmed the departure of Ghanian goalkeeper Richard Ofori following a string of subpar performances this season.
After much deliberation, the team management decided that the once formidable wall between the posts would leave the club when his current contract expires on June 30th.
This announcement came via an official statement released by the Bucs on Thursday.
“Orlando Pirates can confirm that Richard Ofori will be leaving the club when his contract comes to an end on June 30,” the statement read.
“It is with a deep sense of gratitude that we reflect on the contributions of these players during their time with us.
“Ofori joined the Mighty Buccaneers in 2020 and quickly became a cornerstone of our defence, playing 58 matches and securing 29 clean sheets.
“Yet, his influence extended beyond the pitch. Ofori was a unifying force within the squad, and his four years here have left us with countless positive memories.”
Although Ofori arrived in 2020 with impressive credentials and established himself as a vital component of the defence, racking up 58 appearances and 29 clean sheets, recent seasons saw him struggle to maintain consistency.
His decline resulted in limited action, making merely three appearances throughout the 2023-24 football campaign.
The 30-year-old gloveman faced harsh criticism earlier this year during the Africa Cup of Nations held in Ivory Coast. Serving as Ghana’s primary keeper, his less-than-stellar showing contributed to the team’s disappointingly premature elimination from the tournament.