Ouaddou explains his Orlando Pirates technical team choice

Orlando Pirates’ new head coach, Abdeslam Ouaddou, has shed light on his decision not to bring his own technical team to the Buccaneers.

Ouaddou’s appointment came as a surprise to many, with numerous other names, including Rulani Mokwena, having been linked to the head coaching position at Pirates.

The Moroccan coach takes over the reins at Pirates after recently parting ways with Marumo Gallants, a club he joined midway through last season and saved from relegation.

He replaces Jose Riveiro, who left the Sea Robbers to coach Egyptian giants Al Ahly. During his three seasons with Pirates, Riveiro enjoyed success, securing three MTN8 trophies and two Nedbank Cup titles.

The new man at the wheel, Ouaddou, has explained his decision not to bring in new technical staff, citing his deep respect for the capabilities of the individuals already at Pirates.

Ouaddou will work alongside Mandla Ncikazi and Rayaan Jacobs as his assistant coaches, with Tyron Damons serving as goalkeeper coach and Helmy Gueldich as conditioning coach.

“A lot of people are asking why I came alone and didn’t bring my own technical team. Of course, I have the staff I’m working with, maybe five or six people,” said Ouaddou on Pirates TV.

“I came to Marumo Gallants alone, and I came alone here at Pirates. And I’ll explain why: I believe deeply in the competence of Africans.”

He continued, emphasising the talent within South Africa and the continent: “In South Africa, we have people who are competent from big universities, and people have badges here.

“So, if I bring the people who are working with me, which sign am I giving as an African? Am I saying Africans are not competent? I can tell you that if we take time to profile the right people on our continent, you’ll see that we have competent people; I mean, we have coaches who have won the AFCON before.”

Ouaddou concluded by expressing his enthusiasm for collaborating with the existing staff at Bucs.

“So I’m happy to work with people who are already in the club because they have the legacy, and that will help us to quickly help the club.”