Thembinkosi Lorch Set for Shock Al-Ittihad Exit as Free-Agent Opportunity Emerges

Former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns attacker Thembinkosi Lorch could be heading towards a dramatic departure from Libyan giants Al-Ittihad, with reports suggesting that a mutual separation may pave the way for the South African star to become available as a free agent.

The future of Thembinkosi Lorch has become a major talking point ahead of the next transfer window, with the experienced forward reportedly facing an uncertain situation at Al-Ittihad Tripoli. The 33-year-old, who previously enjoyed successful spells in the South African Premier Soccer League and Moroccan football, could be approaching another important turning point in his career.

According to a report published by Africa Soccer on 20 October 2026, Lorch could become a free agent after a proposed move to Moroccan champions Maghreb Fès failed to materialise. The report suggests that discussions over a possible mutual separation with Al-Ittihad have emerged amid uncertainty surrounding his role at the Libyan club. <Cite refs={["turn832885search0"]}/>

Lorch joined Al-Ittihad after leaving Moroccan side Wydad Athletic Club earlier in 2026. His move to Libya was seen as a significant step in his career, particularly after he impressed during his time in Morocco, where he revived his form and demonstrated the attacking quality that had made him a household name among South African football supporters.

However, his situation has reportedly changed considerably. Recent reports indicate that Al-Ittihad coach Faouzi Benzarti no longer considers the former Bafana Bafana international central to his plans. His continued absence from recent matchday squads has fuelled speculation about a possible departure, although the precise terms of any potential separation have not been officially confirmed. <Cite refs={["turn832885search1","turn832885search2"]}/>

The uncertainty surrounding his future follows the collapse of a proposed move to Maghreb Fès. The Moroccan club reportedly showed interest in bringing Lorch back to the Botola Pro, but the parties were unable to reach an agreement on personal terms. His salary package in Libya was reported to be a major obstacle during those discussions. <Cite refs={["turn832885search0","turn832885search12"]}/>

Should Al-Ittihad and Lorch reach an agreement to terminate his contract, the development could attract considerable interest from clubs seeking an experienced attacking player without paying a transfer fee. Nevertheless, becoming a free agent would depend on the formal conclusion of his existing contract, and no official announcement confirming such an agreement has been made.

For South African supporters, the prospect of Lorch returning to the Betway Premiership is likely to generate excitement. The attacker previously established himself as one of the league's most exciting players during his time at Orlando Pirates, where his creativity, close control and ability to produce decisive moments made him a popular figure.

His subsequent spell at Mamelodi Sundowns added another chapter to his domestic career before he pursued opportunities abroad. A possible return to South Africa would offer him an opportunity to reconnect with the league and potentially demonstrate that he still has plenty to contribute at the highest level.

Kaizer Chiefs have also been mentioned in transfer speculation surrounding the forward. However, reports published earlier in the year indicated that there had been no concrete negotiations between Chiefs and Al-Ittihad at that stage. Any suggestion that a move to Naturena is imminent should therefore be treated cautiously until reliable confirmation emerges. <Cite refs={["turn832885search12","turn832885search3"]}/>

A return to Morocco also remains a possibility, with reports previously linking Lorch to clubs interested in securing his services. His familiarity with the country's football environment could make another spell there attractive, depending on the financial and contractual terms available.

For now, the biggest question concerns whether Lorch and Al-Ittihad can agree on a mutual separation. Such a development would give the player greater control over his next destination, but until an official decision is announced, his future remains uncertain.

Source; https://x.com/iDiskiTimes/status/2112537435787735217