Orlando Pirates appoint Abdeslam Ouaddou as new head coach
South African football club Orlando Pirates has confirmed the appointment of former Moroccan international Abdeslam Ouaddou as their new head coach. The announcement was made on Monday, with the 46-year-old set to arrive in Johannesburg before the weekend to finalize a one-year contract and lead pre-season preparations starting June 27.
Ouaddou, who earned 68 caps for Morocco during his playing career, brings extensive global experience to the Buccaneers. He spent 11 seasons in Europe, playing for clubs such as Rennes, Olympiacos, and Fulham. Transitioning to coaching, he has held managerial roles across Africa, including brief tenures with Algeria’s MC Oujda, a successful two-year stint at Benin’s Loto-Popo, nine months with DR Congo’s AS Vita Club, and most recently, guiding South Africa’s Marumo Gallants to safety from relegation.
At Orlando Pirates, Ouaddou will work alongside assistant coaches Mandla Ncikazi, Rayaan Jacobs, Helmi Gueldich, and Tyron Damons, as the club aims to build on their runner-up finish last season. His first significant challenge will be a Spanish training camp from July 8–20, featuring friendlies against Bolton Wanderers, Pafos FC, Las Palmas, and Granada. The pre-season schedule is designed to fine-tune the squad ahead of a highly anticipated campaign.
The club hopes Ouaddou’s leadership will help secure their first league title since 2012, while maintaining competitiveness across all competitions.
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