Abdeslam Ouaddou: Orlando Pirates coach ends speculation over his future

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has put an end to recent speculation about his future, reaffirming his commitment to the club in a heartfelt message to supporters, players, and staff.

The Moroccan tactician enjoyed a remarkable debut season, guiding the Buccaneers to a historic domestic treble. Despite a shaky start to the 2025/26 campaign with unexpected losses to Sekhukhune United and Marumo Gallants, Ouaddou turned the team’s fortunes around. He later admitted “the house was on fire” during that early period.

However, the Sea Robbers mounted a spectacular recovery to win the Betway Premiership, ending a 14-year league title drought. They also secured victories in the MTN8 and Carling Knockout Cup, capping off a dominant season.

Under Ouaddou’s leadership, the team recorded an impressive 32 wins, 7 draws, and only 5 losses across 44 matches.

Ouaddou breaks silence on his future

Despite this success, uncertainty clouded his future after post-match comments where he cited fatigue and hinted at discussions with management. Ouaddou had expressed doubts about seeing out his two-year contract, stating it would be dishonest to continue if he lacked the “power and drive to run such a massive ship.”

Those concerns now appear to be resolved. In a recent social media post, the 47-year-old coach expressed his gratitude and looked ahead to the next season.

“I am writing these few words from the bottom of my heart to send you my most sincere congratulations and my deepest thanks,” Ouaddou wrote. “Thank you for your hard work, your invaluable expertise, your constant dedication, your sacrifices, and, above all, for your boundless love for football and for our club, the Orlando Pirates.”

He celebrated the team’s collective effort in ending the long wait for a league title, using a fitting metaphor for the club’s nickname.

Moroccan coach commits to Pirates

“Like true pirates, we have sailed every sea and ocean, braving the storms, to finally bring the treasure home,” he continued. “This season, we managed to make our wonderful (and oh so demanding) fans deeply happy. I wholeheartedly hope that we continue to bring this immense joy into their daily lives next season.”

With the club expected to sign over seven new players, including Siyanda Ndlovu from Lamontville Golden Arrows and Mthetheleli Mthiyane from Stellenbosch FC, Ouaddou urged his team to rest before the next challenge.

“But for now, I ask you to rest well and enjoy your families to the fullest,” he added. “I expressly need it myself! Disconnect and recharge your batteries because I will need you again to carry out a special mission when we return: to go and recover another massive treasure at the CAF, without letting anyone steal the one already sitting in our cave!”