Ouaddou Clarifies Ncikazi Absence

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has moved to dismiss speculation surrounding assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi’s absence, insisting that the club’s environment remains positive despite growing rumours about his future.

Sportswire understands that Ncikazi could leave the Buccaneers amid reports of a strained relationship with Ouaddou, potentially returning to his former club, Golden Arrows, following his recent absence from the technical bench.

This publication also reported that Ouaddou had allegedly informed Pirates management that he no longer wanted Ncikazi as part of his technical team and had threatened to resign if the situation was not resolved.

However, Ouaddou has played down the speculation, explaining that Ncikazi underwent surgery and is currently recovering.

“The club has issued a statement about that. He had surgery, so now he is recovering. I just wish him all the best, and that is all I can say,” Ouaddou said.

“We have read many things about the situation, and I am sorry about that. Everything is okay at our club, and the environment is good, so people must not start creating problems.

“He had surgery, and I wish him all the best. We should not create problems out of this. It is very important.

“I have read many things, but when somebody is kissing someone on the head, you cannot start inventing stories.”

Ncikazi has been absent from Pirates’ technical bench since the return from the FIFA international break. During the MTN8 final against Mamelodi Sundowns at Moses Mabhida Stadium, he was spotted sitting in the VIP section without wearing any Pirates attire, further fuelling speculation about his situation at the club.

The assistant coach has been a key figure at the Soweto giants since joining ahead of the 2021/22 campaign. He has also worked alongside Ouaddou since the Moroccan tactician took charge of the team.

Together, they helped guide Pirates to a domestic treble, winning the MTN8, Carling Knockout and Betway Premiership titles.

The Buccaneers will now turn their attention to the CAF Champions League, where they are scheduled to face Namibian side African Stars at Orlando Amstel Arena on Friday night in the second leg of their second preliminary-round tie.

Ncikazi could also miss the encounter, with Ouaddou indicating that his assistant is still recovering from surgery. While his absence continues to attract attention, the Pirates coach has urged observers not to read too much into the situation or fuel unnecessary speculation.