Orlando Pirates have decided on the new coach to take over from Jose Riveiro ahead of the 2025/26 Premier Soccer League season.
The Spaniard coached the Sea Robbers for three seasons before leaving for Al Ahly when the 2024/25 campaign ended. The tactician helped the Buccaneers win five major domestic titles, as well as pushing Mamelodi Sundowns for the league title but ended up finishing second on the three occassions.
Celebrated South African coaches Pitso Mosimane and Rulani Mokwena have been heavily linked with the job, but the Pirates management have opted to go for former Marumo Gallants coach.
Ouaddou is the new Pirates' coach
“Orlando Pirates Football Club is pleased to announce the appointment of Abdeslam Ouaddou as the new Head Coach,” the Soweto giants confirmed on Monday.
“Ouaddou takes over the reins ahead of the new season, replacing Jose Riveiro at the helm following his decision to step down to join Al Ahly, after a successful three-year tenure.
“Born in Alnif, Morocco, the 46-year-old brings a wealth of experience both as a player and a tactician. A former Moroccan international, Ouaddou earned 68 caps for The Atlas Lions and enjoyed a distinguished playing career across several top European leagues. His deep understanding of the game, coupled with a strong leadership profile, positions him well to lead the Buccaneers into a new era,” Bucs continued.
“Coach Ouaddou, who is expected to arrive in South Africa towards the end of the week, will be assisted by Mandla Ncikazi and Rayaan Jacobs, Helmi Gueldich and Tyron Damons.
“As part of preparations for the upcoming campaign, Orlando Pirates will embark on their third consecutive international pre-season tour to Marbella, Spain. The training camp – set to run from July 8 to July 20, will see the team engage in high-level friendly matches against European opponents including Bolton Wanderers (England), Pafos FC (Cyprus), Las Palmas (Spain), and Granada (Spain),” they concluded.
