Orlando Pirates Sign Sipho Mbule as Abdeslam Ouaddou Begins New Era at the Helm
Orlando Pirates have officially confirmed the signing of Sipho Mbule, marking the club’s first major acquisition under newly appointed head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. The move signals the start of an ambitious rebuild as the Buccaneers prepare for the 2025/26 season with renewed focus and energy.
Mbule’s arrival comes just days after the Soweto giants announced that Ouaddou would be taking over the reins following Jose Riveiro’s departure to Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly. Riveiro leaves behind a strong legacy after guiding Pirates through a successful three-year spell filled with silverware and progress both domestically and in CAF competitions.
Ouaddou, a former Moroccan international with 68 caps for the Atlas Lions, brings a wealth of global experience to Mayfair. Having played and coached in both Europe and Africa, the 46-year-old tactician is expected to introduce a fresh tactical approach and instil a winning culture as he begins his tenure in South Africa.
Pirates have confirmed that Ouaddou will arrive in the country before the end of the week. He will be supported by a strong technical team, including Mandla Ncikazi, Rayaan Jacobs, Helmi Gueldich, and Tyron Damons—each of whom brings specialised skills to the club’s backroom setup.
The team is set to regroup for pre-season training on June 27 before jetting off for an international training camp in Marbella, Spain, from July 8 to July 20. While in Europe, the Buccaneers will face off in friendly matches against Bolton Wanderers from England, Pafos FC from Cyprus, as well as Spanish sides Las Palmas and Granada—providing a high-intensity platform to test combinations and build match fitness.
In a week full of developments, Pirates also revealed their new-look home and away kits for the 2025/26 campaign. The striking designs reflect the spirit of Johannesburg and merge tradition with innovation, symbolising a fresh start under new leadership.
With strategic player signings, experienced coaching appointments, and a carefully planned pre-season, Orlando Pirates appear poised to challenge strongly in both local and continental competitions. The arrival of Sipho Mbule is a bold statement of intent, and fans will be watching closely as the Buccaneers set sail on a promising new chapter.
