Thembinkosi Lorch Completes Permanent Move from Mamelodi Sundowns to Wydad Athletic Club

Thembinkosi Lorch Completes Permanent Move from Mamelodi Sundowns to Wydad Athletic Club

  • Mamelodi Sundowns have confirmed Thembinkosi Lorch’s permanent move to Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic Club after a successful six-month loan spell
  • Lorch struggled for game time at Sundowns. However, he impressed during the FIFA Club World Cup under Wydad’s coach, Mohamed Amine Benhachem
  • Lorch lives a luxurious lifestyle, with an estimated net worth of R85 million, reflecting his success both on and off the pitch

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Mamelodi Sundowns have officially confirmed the permanent transfer of star winger Thembinkosi Lorch to Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic Club, following the expiry of his loan deal.

Lorch, who joined the Betway Premiership champions from Orlando Pirates two years ago, struggled for game time under coach Miguel Cardoso.

This led to a loan move to Wydad, where he reunited with his former Sundowns coach, Rulani Mokwena, in Morocco.

Lorch, who joined the Betway Premiership champions from Orlando Pirates two years ago, struggled for game time under coach Miguel Cardoso.
Mamelodi Sundowns have officially confirmed the permanent transfer of star winger Thembinkosi Lorch to Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic Club, following the expiry of his loan deal. Image: Terrence Lewis
Source: Getty Images

His six-month loan spell was a success, with standout performances during the FIFA Club World Cup. Wydad have now secured his services on a two-year permanent deal, following an agreement with Sundowns over the transfer of the 2018/19 PSL Footballer of the Season.

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What did the club say?

Sundowns released a statement expressing thanking him:

"Thank you, Nyoso! After two unforgettable years, one league title, 26 appearances, seven goals and four assists, the Yellow Nation thanks and celebrates Thembinkosi Lorch," the club tweeted.
"Wishing you all the best as you start the next chapter of your journey!"

See the tweet below:

Lorch impressed particularly under Wydad’s current coach, Mohamed Amine Benhachem, during the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, which played a key role in the Moroccan side’s decision to sign him permanently.

See the tweet below:

Lorch's agent confirms his departure.

When approached for comment, Lorch’s agent, Steve Kapeluschnik, confirmed that a move was forthcoming but declined to provide details.

"Lorch is indeed set to begin a new chapter in his career," Kapeluschnik told SABC Sport.
"However, due to the confidential nature of these negotiations, I cannot disclose which club he will be joining; that announcement is for the clubs to make.

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His six-month loan spell proved successful, highlighted by standout performances at the FIFA Club World Cup.
Wydad have now secured his services on a two-year permanent deal, following an agreement with Sundowns over the transfer of the 2018/19 PSL Footballer of the Season. Image: Terrence Lewis
Source: Getty Images

Lorch’s transfer from Orlando Pirates to Mamelodi Sundowns in 2024 saw his monthly earnings reportedly soar to around R450,000, according to multiple sources. This represents a significant jump from his previous salary at Pirates, which ranged between R130,000 and R165,000 per month.

See the tweet below:

Back in 2023, a court case revealed that Lorch was earning roughly R50,000 net each month after child support deductions. However, that figure no longer reflects his current status in the Premier Soccer League (PSL), where his move to Sundowns has not only boosted his earnings but also elevated his profile as one of the league’s highest-paid players.

Lorch’s luxury lifestyle and estimated Net Worth

Briefly News previously reported that Lorch has built a life of luxury, with an estimated net worth of R85 million.

His wealth stems from lucrative football contracts, endorsement deals, and investments in designer fashion, exotic holidays, a Midrand mansion, and a sleek car collection. His lifestyle reflects both his success and rising star power in football.

Source: Briefly News

Authors:
Ncube Harrison avatar

Ncube Harrison (Sports Editor) Harrison Ncube is a passionate sports journalist with six years of experience covering African and global sports. Harrison provides sharp analysis, engaging commentary, and compelling storytelling. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies from the Zimbabwe Open University and previously worked at Sports Buzz (2018–2022), freelanced for Sports Journal (2023–2024), and contributed to Radio 54 African Panorama Live (2021–2023). For inquiries, reach him at ncube.harrison@briefly.co.za