Why Ouaddou? Pirates explain coaching decision

Orlando Pirates media officer Thandi Merafe has shed light on the club’s unexpected decision to appoint Abdeslam Ouaddou as their new head coach.

The Moroccan’s appointment was confirmed on Monday by Pirates, and it surprised many after reports that Rulani Mokwena was set to take over the vacant coaching role.

Ouaddou is Jose Riveiro’s replacement as the Spanish coach left Pirates after three successful seasons (July 2022 – May 2025), where he secured three MTN8 trophies and two Nedbank Cup titles.

Riveiro left the Buccaneers to take charge of Egyptian giants Al Ahly.

However, much like their appointment of Jose Riveiro in July 2022, the Soweto giants once again sent shockwaves through South African football by announcing Ouaddou, who had a brief stint with Marumo Gallants last season.

Speaking on Radio 2000, Pirates’ media officer, Merafe, explained the club’s decision to appoint Abdeslam Ouaddou as head coach comes from their strategy of finding “hidden diamonds”.

Ouaddou’s appeal to Pirates became clear during a match against his former team, Marumo Gallants. Merafe pointed to his “behaviour when he’s under pressure, the attitude, and the professionalism,” describing him as a “professional and a gentleman of the game.”

“Our management has been working tirelessly to prepare the team for the upcoming season, making sure they get the right people in the right space,” explained Merafe. “We’ve seen how in the past they’ve always managed to get it right, and getting the hidden diamond. I use that term because more often than not, we bring in people that the general public doesn’t know about.”

Merafe emphasised the club’s knack for identifying talent: “The Orlando Pirates have a very keen eye and an amazing ability to unearth talent and people that are perfect for the brand.”

Highlighting Ouaddou’s qualities, she added, “I’m happy with the announcement of the new coach.

“I think the one match where we played against him [at Gallants], you can see the behaviour of the coach when he’s under pressure—the attitude and the professionalism. He came out as someone who is professional and a gentleman of the game, and I’m sure everyone at the club is looking forward to working with him.”