Orlando Pirates star Karim Kimvuidi’s future at Mayfair is now under the spotlight, with signs increasingly pointing towards a potential exit ahead of the upcoming season. After two years with the Soweto giants, the Congolese midfielder finds himself at a career crossroads, driven by diminishing game time and growing frustration.
From promising Pirates start to the side lines
Kimvuidi joined Pirates from Maritzburg United with high expectations, and while his debut season showed promise, it failed to fully take off. The 23-year-old featured in 22 matches as the Buccaneers lifted both the MTN8 and Nedbank Cup.
Despite those achievements, Kimvuidi started and finished only one game, a statistic that raised early concerns about his long-term role at the club.
Instead of progressing in his second season, things went in the opposite direction. He made just 15 appearances. Crucially, he completed the full 90 minutes only once and was omitted entirely from 37 matchday squads.
‘He needs to be playing regular football’
This sharp decline has unsettled the midfielder, prompting his representatives to begin exploring potential transfer options. Sources close to the player confirm that discussions have begun regarding a possible move.
However, with Kimvuidi still under contract at Pirates, any exit would require a transfer fee.
Importantly, Kimvuidi occupies one of the club’s limited five foreign player slots, something that could influence Orlando Pirates decisions going forward.
National team aspirations add pressure
In Kinshasa, national team selectors have expressed admiration for Kimvuidi. And reportedly view regular club football as essential for a return to the international fold.
“Kimvuidi needs to be playing regular football to be considered for the national team again,” said a source in Congo familiar with the situation.
He had been on the DR Congo radar prior to joining Pirates. But missing out on national duty has only intensified his desire for more consistent minutes.
When Pirates secured Kimvuidi’s services, they beat off stiff competition. Interest came from MLS outfit DC United, Turkish side Alanyaspor, and Moroccan clubs RSB Berkane and Olympic Safi.
Should Kimvuidi leave Orlando Pirates?
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