Former Black Stars number one goalkeeper Richard Ofori, whose contract is expected to expire on June 30, 2024, has been axed from DSTV Premier League club Orlando Pirates FC.
Born in 1993, Richard Ofori started his professional football career with Wa All Stars. Ofori featured at the Ghanaian club, where he played from 2012 to 2017, before joining Maritzburg United in South Africa. After just two seasons at Maritzburg United, Ofori joined Orlando Pirates in a mouth-watering deal, where he signed a three-year contract with the club in October 2020.
Since joining the Buccaneers, his impressive performances led him to become one of the team’s captains. During this time, Richard Ofori has also received numerous call-ups to the national team, including being a member of the squads for the 2017 and 2023 African Cup of Nations.
The Ghanaian goalkeeper has faced injury setbacks in recent seasons, resulting in the loss of his starting role at Orlando Pirates. On June 7, 2024, Orlando Pirates announced that he, along with three South African players, would be leaving the club.
Richard Ofori, who is currently without a club, will be looking to exploit offers from various clubs as there were previous interests from clubs in the Saudi Professional League.
The club statement of Pirates read
“Orlando Pirates can confirm that Richard Ofori, Siyabonga Mpontshane, Thabang Monare, and Kermit Erasmus will be leaving us when their respective contracts come to an end on June 30. It is with a deep sense of gratitude that we reflect on the contributions of these players during their time with us.
Richard Ofori
Richard joined the Mighty Buccaneers in 2020 and quickly became a cornerstone of their defense, playing 58 matches and keeping 29 clean sheets. Yet, his influence extended beyond the pitch. Richard was a unifying force within the squad, and his four years here, have left us with countless positive memories”
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Story by: David Kwaku Dzaku| univers.ug.edu.gh
