Abdeslam Ouaddou Compares Orlando Pirates Midfielder Sipho Mbule to Zinedine Zidane

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has lavished praise on midfielder Sipho Mbule, drawing a bold comparison between the 27-year-old and French and Real Madrid legend Zinedine Zidane. The coach credited Mbule’s vision, skill, and creativity as key factors behind Pirates’ recent success.

Mbule has been one of the standout performers since joining Pirates at the start of the season. His contributions helped the club secure two trophies within six months: the MTN8 and the Carling Knockout Cup. Ouaddou, who took charge at the beginning of the campaign, said he had admired Mbule even before their paths crossed at the Soweto giants.

“Even before I signed with Orlando Pirates, one of the players I wanted to work with was Sipho Mbule,” Ouaddou told 947’s MSW. “I was very happy to find him at Orlando Pirates. We have to give credit to the club and the chairmen who gave a second chance to a talent like that.”

Ouaddou highlighted Mbule’s football intelligence, describing him as a player with “eyes in the back of his head” capable of seeing plays before receiving the ball. He praised Mbule’s pre-season and noted the midfielder’s performances had earned him a recall to the Bafana Bafana national team.

“He has the talent, he can make some fantastic drills that nobody can,” Ouaddou said. “He had a fantastic pre-season, and we have seen the results. He went back to the national team.”

Despite the praise, Ouaddou also offered a word of caution. He urged Mbule to remain focused and committed to maintaining his level of performance.

“My advice to him is to keep working. I am your big brother, your coach, your friend. I will support you 100 percent as long as you are working,” Ouaddou added. “If you don’t respect football, football will not respect you. You are one of the best footballers on the continent. Don’t miss this chance to stay at the high level.”

Mbule’s performances under Ouaddou have elevated his profile in South African football. The coach’s endorsement underscores the midfielder’s potential to consistently impact both club and national team fixtures, while also setting expectations for him to maintain discipline and professionalism on and off the pitch.