The 28-year-old's exit follows speculation over his future after he was left out of Pirates' squad for Saturday's match against Sekhukhune United. Head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou was unable to provide clarity on the situation at the time, but the club have now confirmed that Maswanganyi will continue his career abroad.
Pirates said the player's departure came after discussions with him and his representatives, with Maswanganyi making it clear that he wanted to pursue a new opportunity outside South Africa.
"Maswanganyi remained an important part of the technical team's plans for the season. However, following discussions with the player and his representatives, he expressed a clear desire to pursue a new opportunity abroad," Pirates said.
The Soweto giants added that they respected his wishes and chose not to stand in the way of his move.
"In recognition of his service to the Club and his ambitions for the next chapter of his career, Orlando Pirates agreed not to stand in his way. A transfer was subsequently concluded with Al Khaldiya Sports Club," continued the statement.
Maswanganyi joined Pirates in 2022 and went on to establish himself as a popular figure among the club's supporters. He was also named the Players' Player of the Season for 2023/24 and leaves as a league champion after winning eight trophies during his time with the Buccaneers.
His departure nevertheless represents a significant change to Ouaddou's attacking options, particularly with Pirates competing in the Betway Premiership and MTN8 while preparing for their CAF Champions League campaign.
Maswanganyi is also the third Pirates playmaker to leave for an overseas club during the current transfer window, following Relebogile Mofokeng and Sipho Mbule.
Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has challenged Sebastian Pedersen to raise his fitness levels after getting his first glimpse of the Norwegian striker in competitive action.
Deon Hotto believes Orlando Pirates are in a strong position to reach another MTN8 final after securing a narrow first-leg advantage over Sekhukhune United.
Orlando Pirates midfielder Patrick Maswanganyi is reportedly close to agreeing a shock move to an unnamed Bahrain club despite his impressive start to the 2026/27 season.
Ambitious Motsepe Foundation Championship side Hope FC have signed Orlando Pirates defender Moses Mphekgoane on loan.
