Orlando Pirates in High Spirits as They Head to Spain for Marbella Pre-Season Tour

Orlando Pirates have officially landed in Spain as they kick off their much-anticipated pre-season tour in Marbella ahead of the 2025/26 DStv Premiership campaign. The Buccaneers appear to be brimming with confidence and camaraderie as they begin preparations under the guidance of newly appointed head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.

This marks the third consecutive year that the Soweto giants have chosen Spain as their base for pre-season training, reinforcing their ambition to fine-tune tactics, fitness, and squad cohesion ahead of a season filled with both domestic and continental aspirations.

The team touched down in Malaga on Tuesday and wasted no time in getting to work. They immediately made their way to the Marbella Football Centre, a state-of-the-art facility that will serve as their training ground throughout the tour. With the pressure mounting to deliver silverware, Ouaddou and his technical team will be keen to get the most out of every session.

On the fixture list, the Buccaneers are set for a tough slate of matches against European opposition. The schedule includes a clash with English League One side Bolton Wanderers, a showdown with Cypriot outfit Pafos FC, and high-profile meetings with La Liga sides Las Palmas and Granada FC. These fixtures will offer a solid test for the squad’s depth, tactical flexibility, and readiness for the season ahead.

But it’s not just about hard work and drills. Off the pitch, the mood in the Pirates camp is equally vibrant. Team chemistry and morale are at a high, as captured in behind-the-scenes content shared by broadcaster Thomas Mlambo, who is travelling with the team on behalf of SuperSportBet.

In one lighthearted clip, Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine takes on the role of interviewer, chatting with new signing Oswin Appollis and fan-favourite Relebohile Mofokeng. The players shared their excitement about the tour, offering a glimpse into the relaxed and positive atmosphere that surrounds the group.

With a blend of youth and experience, and renewed energy brought by Ouaddou’s arrival, Orlando Pirates look focused and ready to take their preparations seriously. The Marbella pre-season tour not only presents a chance to sharpen tactics and build fitness but also to foster unity among the players — an ingredient that could prove crucial in the months to come.

As the Buccaneers continue their training and begin their string of friendlies, fans back home will be watching closely, hopeful that this European tour sets the stage for a successful 2025/26 season.