Orlando Pirates raid Stellenbosch FC again as key member set to follow in Deano Van Rooyen's footsteps

Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has roped in head of performance Ruan Rust to be part of his technical team.

Rust arrived at the Soweto giants from Stellenbosch and the Maroons coach Steve Barker has confirmed the development.

“We had a farewell for Ruan during the week where I said that all the players want to play in Europe, or in the English Premier League, and staff have the same ambition, but to do so you need to be at a certain level,” Barker told Stellenbosch's website.

“I think, of all the staff at our club, Ruan above all of them is world-class and has the ability to work at the highest of the highest levels one day.

"He has a great opportunity ahead of him now, and with a young family, it’s one that you can’t turn down.

“It’s a big loss for us but at the same time, we have built a really firm friendship over the years, and when you see people advancing you can only be happy for them. He has served the club exceptionally and we all wish him well,” added season's Carling Knockout-winning coach

Barker added, “Ruan has played a big part in our success in recent years and has left a legacy at the club through the level of his work, his personal impact, and professionalism that will serve as an example for others to follow.”

Rust is the second technical team member to join Pirates from Stellenbosch in 2024 after performance analyst Devon O’Brien.

This also comes after the Buccaneers also poached utility player Deano van Rooyen from the Maroons.

The Cape Winelands side continues to supply players to other PSL clubs and this year Iqraam Rayners' move to Mamelodi Sundowns was a prominent one.

The Buccaneers have sent a strong message as serious PSL title contenders by winning seven straight league games.

The arrival of Rust is expected to add more bite to Jose Riveiro's technical team as they seek to stay on top of the table.