Orlando Pirates has revealed that Abdeslam Ouaddou is its news head coach. Image: Orlando Pirates shared via Facebook.
(The Post News)– Orlando Pirates have officially introduced Abdeslam Ouaddou as their new head coach, marking a significant move in the club’s campaign to regain domestic dominance.
Ouaddou brings an impressive pedigree both as a former international and as a coach. The 46-year-old Moroccan-Frenchman earned 80 caps with Morocco’s national team (2000–2009) and showcased his talents at top clubs including Fulham, Rennes, Olympiacos, Valenciennes, and AS Nancy, playing over 85 senior matches in Europe and Asia.
Since transitioning to coaching, Ouaddou has built a respected résumé across the African football landscape. His tenure with AS Vita Club in the DR Congo featured a standout CAF Confederation Cup semi-final run, alongside lifting a major domestic cup, underpinning his credentials on the continental stage.
Ouaddou’s arrival in South Africa was met with immediate impact. Late February saw him appointed at Marumo Gallants, replacing Dan Malesela. His debut could not have been more memorable: delivering a sensational 2‑0 league victory over Orlando Pirates on March 1 at Toyota Stadium. He later described the win as built on defensive fortitude and renewed team confidence.
However, Gallants’ spirited cup run ended with a narrow 1-0 Nedbank Cup semi-final loss to Pirates. Despite the defeat, Ouaddou praised his players’ “fighting spirit” against the seasoned Pirates squad.
Throughout his short stint at Gallants, Ouaddou emphasised defensive solidity, identifying and improving a leaky backline that had conceded over 30 goals before his arrival. He highlighted the need for clean sheets and squad confidence, laying the groundwork that eventually secured their position in the PSL’s safety zone.
With five victories, four draws, and three losses in 12 games in all competitions, Gallants rose from the relegation zone to finish 10th in the standings under his direction. By hiring Ouaddou, Pirates are demonstrating their aspirations by investing in a coach who has a track record of success in player development, continental competition, and high-pressure scenarios. He is well suited to the Pirates’ long-term goals because of his bilingual communication abilities, which he developed in Europe and Africa, as well as his rising reputation.
Supporters’ response to the social media post featuring hundreds of likes and comments suggests an enthusiastic welcome and high expectations for early success. Ouaddou will be tasked with steering Pirates to domestic trophies, including the PSL and MTN8, and rekindling their CAF Champions League credentials.
His defensive ethos, tactical acumen, and cross-continental experience position him as a coach capable of unifying a talented squad and delivering winning results. As the new season unfolds, Pirates fans will watch closely to see if Ouaddou’s bold arrival can indeed help the club make history together.
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