Abdeslam Ouaddou Appointed as New Orlando Pirates Head Coach with Big Expectations for 2025/26

Orlando Pirates have ushered in a new era with the appointment of Abdeslam Ouaddou as their head coach ahead of the 2025/26 season. The former Morocco international takes over from Jose Riveiro, who recently left the Soweto giants to join Egyptian champions Al Ahly after three years at the helm.

Ouaddou’s arrival at Pirates comes with enormous pressure and expectation. Coaching the Buccaneers represents a significant step up in his managerial career, following his brief but impactful stint with Marumo Gallants during the second half of the 2024/25 campaign. While at Gallants, Ouaddou turned around a side that was flirting with relegation, helping them finish in 10th place and securing their league status.

Despite his success at Gallants, Ouaddou’s sudden departure at the end of the season raised eyebrows, with both parties remaining tight-lipped about the reasons behind the split. Nonetheless, Pirates were quick to identify him as their top choice to replace Riveiro, following an extensive search that included several candidates.

For Ouaddou, the task ahead is clear: deliver silverware and restore Pirates to consistent title contention. The Buccaneers enjoyed a mixed 2024/25 season, showing flashes of brilliance but falling short in key moments. Supporters are eager for a return to dominance, and the club’s leadership expects nothing less.

Players who have worked under Ouaddou are optimistic about what he brings to the table. Vusi Sibiya, who played for Gallants under the new Bucs boss, has backed him to succeed at Orlando Stadium.

“Coach Abdee is a good coach; all I can say to Pirates is that he demands hard work from his players,” Sibiya told SNL24. “As long as you put in the effort, you’ll get a chance to play in his team. He doesn’t show favouritism, and he selects players purely on merit.”

Sibiya highlighted Ouaddou’s no-nonsense approach: “Whether you’re a youngster or an experienced player, performance is what earns you a spot. He’s a man of principles who values a high work rate, and when it’s time to work, there’s no room for messing around. With that coach, if you’re not giving your best, you’re only hurting yourself because you won’t play.”

The Buccaneers are set to begin their pre-season preparations with a training camp in Spain. This will be Ouaddou’s first opportunity to assess his squad closely and implement his tactical vision. With new signings expected to integrate and competition for places heating up, the players will have to impress the new technical bench to secure their spots.

For Abdeslam Ouaddou, the road ahead will be challenging, but with Pirates’ passionate fan base and a talented squad, he has all the tools needed to succeed. The countdown to the new season has begun, and all eyes will be on how the new man in charge navigates life at one of South Africa’s biggest football institutions.