‘No gifts’: Ouaddou issues stern warning to Pirates stars

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has made it clear that “circus football” will not be tolerated, warning his squad that reputation alone won’t secure a place in his starting XI.

Despite a seemingly comfortable 3-0 victory over Marumo Gallants at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday, the former Morocco international was left fuming at his side’s lack of clinical edge. With the Buccaneers currently six points clear at the summit and chasing their first league title since 2012, Ouaddou is demanding elite standards.

While the fans may have enjoyed the three goals, Ouaddou’s post-match assessment was a sobering reminder of the pressure that comes with wearing the skull and crossbones.

“We are not here to play circus football,” Ouaddou stated bluntly, demanding his attackers show more ruthlessness in the final third. The former Fulham defender is reportedly unimpressed with the team’s wastefulness, despite their dominant position on the log.

Earn Your Stripes, Pirates Coach Tells His Players

While the Moroccan tactician has utilized a rotation policy to manage fatigue during a grueling season, he was quick to dispel the notion that every player is guaranteed a turn. For Ouaddou, rotation is a reward for professionalism, not a right.

“I’m not here to give gifts,” Ouaddou warned. “I evaluate the performance of the guys at training—the guys who are professional, the guys who are working. They are the ones who get the chance to play and are included in this rotation.”

The Premier League Mentality

Drawing on his experience in the English Premier League, Ouaddou highlighted that a large squad is only useful if the internal competition remains fierce.

“Since I was a professional football player in England, we played in many competitions with a big squad. It’s very important to have this kind of management to keep the competition inside the team,” he explained.

“Everybody needs to be involved, but they have to deserve it. It’s not a gift.”

With a massive lead at the top of the table, Ouaddou is clearly taking no chances. By squeezing every ounce of effort from his squad at Mayfair, he is ensuring that the “Sea Robbers” don’t become complacent in their pursuit of the elusive Betway Premiership crown.