Abdoulaye Mariko: ‘Orlando Pirates more than football’

Orlando Pirates FC’s new Malian signing Abdoulaye Mariko has poured out his emotions on what it means to join the Betway Premiership side in South Africa.

The former Mali’s Djoliba FC player was in action for the Buccaneers as they emerged 2-0 winners over Polokwane City in the MTN8 quarter final last Saturday.

Mariko said representing the club is a dream come true and he is determined to build on that.

“Wearing the Pirates jersey for the first time felt like a dream come true,” he told the club’s media. “I knew I was representing a club with great history, pride, and passionate supporters – I felt a deep responsibility to give my best.”

Mariko added: “Playing for Orlando Pirates is more than just football, it’s about representing a legacy,” he said. “It means discipline, honour, and a commitment to excellence. I feel blessed to be part of such a prestigious club.”

The 22-year-old added that he is moulding his career around Ivorian Yaya Toure and N’Golo Kante, a French star of Mali descent. He expressed his great admiration for the duo’s work ethic and humility, further crediting his development to his time at Mali’s Djoliba FC.

“Joining Djoliba was a major step in my career. It’s one of the biggest clubs in Mali, and it helped me grow both technically and mentally. It was at Djoliba that I truly understood what it means to be a professional footballer,” Mariko added.

Mariko hopes to get more game-time when Pirates start the Betway Premiership campaign against Sekhukhune United at Orlando Stadium on Saturday.