Orlando Pirates midfielder Karim Kimvuidi is reportedly not keen on a loan move away from the club and has expressed a preference for a potential transfer abroad. The 22-year-old Congolese attacking midfielder has found himself in a difficult position this season, making only two league appearances despite a promising start to his career at the club.
Kimvuidi joined Orlando Pirates last season with high expectations after a standout debut campaign where he scored two goals and impressed with his skill and flair. However, this season, his opportunities have been limited, largely due to fierce competition in the Pirates squad. The club has a number of talented attackers vying for spots in the starting XI, and Kimvuidi has struggled to secure a regular place, especially with key figures like Monnapule Saleng, Patrick Maswanganyi, and Kabelo Dlamini often preferred in attacking roles.
Despite his limited game time, Kimvuidi’s talent has never been in question. Sources close to the club have suggested that his lack of minutes is more about the depth and competition in the Pirates squad rather than any shortcomings on his part. “Kimvuidi is one of those players who, despite being so talented, finds himself in an environment where he is competing with established stars,” a source told Soccer Laduma. “He is a good player who could excel at any other club, but unfortunately, his game time at Pirates has been limited due to the competition for positions.”
The young Congolese midfielder has long been regarded as a player with enormous potential, and his ability to control the tempo of the game and drive forward with the ball has caught the attention of both his teammates and rivals. However, despite showing glimpses of his quality in the past, Kimvuidi has struggled to break into the starting lineup consistently. His limited appearances this season have left him frustrated, as he has found it difficult to make a significant impact under coach Jose Riveiro.
While reports surfaced last week suggesting that Orlando Pirates were considering sending Kimvuidi out on loan to help him gain more playing time, the player himself has made it clear that he is not eager to join a South African club on loan. Instead, he is reportedly interested in exploring options abroad, with a move to a European club being his preferred choice. Kimvuidi’s desire to test himself in Europe is understandable, as many young African talents see European leagues as a natural next step in their careers. However, with the January transfer window nearing its close, a move abroad appears unlikely in the immediate term, and a loan to a PSL club could be the only viable option for the player if he is to secure more game time in the second half of the season.
Sources close to the player suggest that a change of environment could be the key to unlocking Kimvuidi’s full potential. “He needs a fresh start, whether that’s a loan move to another club or perhaps a permanent transfer abroad,” the source continued. “But from what I understand, he would prefer an option abroad rather than a loan move within the PSL. That being said, the timing may not be right for him to move overseas just yet, as the window is closing soon.”
As it stands, Orlando Pirates have been relatively quiet in the January transfer window, with coach Jose Riveiro not making any major moves to strengthen his squad. The club has been focused on maintaining a solid position in both the league and the Nedbank Cup, with Riveiro content with the resources he currently has. The Buccaneers have a deep squad, but the competition for places has made it difficult for some players, like Kimvuidi, to secure regular playing time. However, with Riveiro hinting at satisfaction with his squad, it remains to be seen whether the club will seek to part ways with Kimvuidi on loan or a permanent transfer.
Despite his lack of involvement in recent matches, Kimvuidi remains a valuable player for Orlando Pirates. His creativity and technical ability in the attacking midfield role are qualities that any club would value. While it’s unlikely that he will feature prominently in Pirates’ upcoming Nedbank Cup Round of 16 match against Richards Bay, his situation will likely be revisited at the end of the season. For now, his future at the club remains uncertain, and whether he stays or goes will depend largely on how the transfer market unfolds in the coming weeks.
Pirates fans will certainly be watching closely to see whether Kimvuidi’s future lies at the club or if he will seek a new challenge, either in South Africa or abroad. The decision could also have a knock-on effect on the club’s transfer plans, as they may look to strengthen their squad in other areas if Kimvuidi does leave. For now, the focus will remain on the upcoming fixtures, with Kimvuidi likely hoping for more chances to showcase his talent before any decisions about his future are made.