Orlando Pirates’ performance analyst, Devon O’Brien, has officially parted ways with the club, marking yet another shift in the team’s technical department. O’Brien joined the Buccaneers in June from Stellenbosch FC and quickly established himself as an essential figure in the club’s recent successes. His contributions were significant in helping Pirates retain their MTN8 title, a trophy they defended successfully under his watch. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in assisting the team to secure a place in the CAF Champions League group stages. Currently, the team also boasts a flawless record in the Betway Premiership, where they sit at the top of the league with 21 points, having won all seven of their opening games.
This departure adds to a series of recent changes within the Pirates’ technical team, which has seen the loss of assistant coach Sergio Almenara and Miguel Bellver in just over a year. O’Brien’s exit is attributed to personal reasons, and sources indicate he is planning a return to Cape Town to pursue other opportunities. While the exact details of his future role remain under wraps, it’s clear his move is influenced by factors beyond football, signaling a new chapter in his life and career.
Despite O’Brien’s departure, Pirates had already been proactive in securing a replacement. The club recruited Ruan Rust, who also hails from Stellenbosch FC, where he previously held the role of Head of Performance. Rust’s appointment aims to maintain and potentially enhance the strong performance analysis framework that O’Brien helped build at Pirates. His addition will be critical as the club seeks to sustain its momentum and continue competing at the top level in both the domestic league and international stages. With Rust now stepping in, Pirates fans and management alike will be looking forward to seeing how his expertise supports the team’s ongoing ambitions.
