Thembinkosi Lorch, a star player for Wydad Athletic Club, has spoken about how he adjusting to life in Morocco and shared his thoughts on competing against Manchester City at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
Lorch joined the Botola Pro League powerhouse on loan from Mamelodi Sundowns in January, having been recruited by now-sacked coach Rulani Mokwena.
Despite concerns that Nyoso, as Lorch is known, would not make it in Casablanca, the talented player had a strong 2024/25 campaign. Along with his compatriot Cassius Mailula, he was one of the standout performers for the Red Castle.
With now the focus being on the Club World Cup, Lorch has discussed his expectations for their opponents, given that Wydad is in Group G with Pep Guardiola's City, Juventus FC, and current Asian champions Al Ain FC.
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"I'm very happy to be participating in the Club World Cup, and I'm very happy for the team, we'll have some great matches against big clubs," Lorch told FIFA's official website.
"I support Manchester City, so I'm excited to face them. Manchester City and Juventus are two big teams.
"So it will be great to play against them, to see their performance, and to learn from them because they play at a high level.
The former Orlando Pirates fan-favourite star, now 31 years old, has also shared how he adapted in Morocco.
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"It's not easy coming from South Africa to Morocco, where everyone knows me in my country, while here no one knows me, so I had to adapt to the new situation," Lorch added.
"I think my teammates, coaches, and even the fans have welcomed me well into the team. I think I'm adapting well to the atmosphere now.
"This great club loves football, and its fans love it passionately. They are passionate about what they do, and that's what makes them special. We have a great group of talented players."
