Moroccan coach departs Betway Premiership side

Moroccan coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. Photo credit: Marumo Gallants

Moroccan coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has announced his departure from Betway Premiership side Marumo Gallants following the conclusion of the 2024/25 season.

His departure on Saturday brings an end to a brief but impactful three-month tenure with Gallants.

Ouaddou joined Bahlabane Ba Ntwa in March, stepping in to replace Dan Malesela, who has since moved to Baroka FC. He was tasked with the challenging objective of saving the club from relegation, a mission he successfully accomplished.

Under his leadership, Gallants, which had been experiencing a significant slump in form and poor results mid-season, found renewed purpose.

The Moroccan coach was in charge in 12 matches across all competitions, securing five wins, four draws, and three losses.

Despite previously expressing optimism about extending his stay with Gallants, Ouaddou has now publicly confirmed he is "back in the market" and "open to any proposal."

He also conveyed his sincere gratitude to Gallants for the opportunity to coach in the Betway Premiership.

“I would like to announce with this press release the end of the adventure with the Marumo Gallants club,” said Ouaddou. “It has been a great pleasure to have collaborated with all the resources of the club.

“I would like to thank first of all my players, my president, as well as all the stakeholders of the club who participated from near or far in this mission to save the club, without forgetting our magnificent supporters.

“The people of Bloemfontein will remain in my heart forever. I wish the best to Marumo Gallants as well as to my players. I love you guys.

“I obviously remain open to any proposal for an ambitious project and determined to take on a new challenge.”