Former National Captain Assesses Orlando Pirates’ New Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou Ahead of High-Pressure Role

Orlando Pirates recently announced Abdeslam Ouaddou as their new head coach, following the departure of Jose Riveiro, who guided the Soweto giants to five trophies over three successful seasons. Ouaddou, previously at Marumo Gallants, arrives with a mixed record in the PSL—registering five wins, four draws, and three losses across 12 matches—but brings international playing and coaching experience that has drawn interest and cautious optimism.

Simphiwe Dludlu, former captain of the South African women’s national team Banyana Banyana and a UEFA B and CAF A licensed coach, shared her perspective on Ouaddou’s readiness for what is widely regarded as one of the most volatile coaching positions in South African football. Speaking on SABC Sport’s Soccer Zone, Dludlu highlighted both Ouaddou’s credentials and the challenges ahead.

“You look at what he has done, he has played in France, England, and for the Morocco national team,” Dludlu explained. “But he has a big task, to either make or break his CV in this Orlando Pirates team.”

Dludlu reflected on Ouaddou’s brief tenure at Marumo Gallants, where he took charge in March and delivered respectable results, including a memorable victory over Pirates themselves. “He got a couple of wins, played four draws, and had three losses. You could see what he was trying to do at Marumo Gallants,” she said.

With his move to Pirates, Ouaddou now has access to a stronger squad and improved resources compared to his previous job. “He is better equipped here, and he’s not going to be fighting about contracts,” Dludlu added, acknowledging the more stable environment the coach will now work within.

Despite the optimism, she emphasised that Ouaddou’s time at Pirates will be pivotal in defining his coaching career. “Let’s hope that he really makes it because he has the right experience, but he has to build his CV,” she concluded.

As Pirates prepare for the new season, the club will embark on a pre-season training camp in Spain with four friendlies lined up to test the squad and integrate Ouaddou’s ideas. The coming months will be critical for the Moroccan-French tactician to demonstrate his ability to lead one of South Africa’s biggest football institutions through a new chapter.