Mamelodi Sundowns legend Joel 'Fire' Masilela has revealed that Thembinkosi Lorch's move from Orlando Pirates to Mamelodi Sundowns was always going to work against the midfielder.
Lorch joined Sundowns from Orlando Pirates in January 2024.
However, he has struggled to get much game-time since the departure of Rulani Mokwena from Chloorkop at the end of last season.
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So far this term, he has played only five matches across all competitions, recording a single assist.
"His biggest challenge is the competition for places at Sundowns. There are higher expectations, and as Sundowns continue to sign more players, the competition becomes increasingly tough," Masilela points out.
"It's not the same as it was at Pirates, where Lorch was comparable to Sundowns star player 'Mshishi' [Themba Zwane]. He was always shining there. But now, due to the fierce competition at Sundowns, he is struggling and lacks confidence.
"Rulani's departure affected him significantly because he was the one who brought Lorch to Sundowns. Changes like that can have a real impact on players. Lorch didn't initially want to leave Pirates, he agreed to move only because Rulani convinced him.
"I always knew he would face challenges at Sundowns because the style of play is different," he adds.
The former multiple league winner with The Brazilians says the team has a lot of quality players who are better than Lorch, and that he should have thought carefully about making the switch.
"Lorch made a mistake by leaving Pirates to follow Rulani. This is about Lorch's future, not Rulani's. He should have remained at Orlando Pirates or joined a more suitable team.
"Time is not on his side, as age is catching up with him. Moving to a team solely for financial reasons isn't wise. This should serve as a lesson to other players contemplating similar moves.
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"What is happening to Lorch has happened to others like [Benedict] 'Tso' Vilakazi, George Lebese, and George Maluleka. You can't join Sundowns just for a better salary.
"Ask yourself: 'Am I going there to add value, or is this just a step toward retirement?' At his age, Lorch should be playing regularly, week in and week out."