Ouaddou Ends Exit Rumors With Emotional Message

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has effectively confirmed that he will remain at the club next season after overseeing one of the most successful campaigns in the Buccaneers’ modern history, putting an end to speculation surrounding his future.

The Moroccan tactician joined Pirates at the start of the recently concluded season after leaving Marumo Gallants and immediately transformed the fortunes of the Soweto giants.

In his first season in charge, Ouaddou guided the Buccaneers to their first Betway Premiership title in 14 years, ending a lengthy league drought that had frustrated the club’s passionate supporters.

The 47-year-old also completed a remarkable domestic treble, leading Pirates to success in the MTN8 and Carling Knockout competitions.

Ouaddou’s side was equally impressive in terms of consistency and resilience, losing only four matches in open play across all competitions throughout the season. His tactical approach, discipline, and winning mentality quickly earned him the admiration of the Pirates faithful as he enjoyed a dream debut campaign at the club.

Despite the historic achievements, uncertainty emerged over Ouaddou’s future after he admitted following Pirates’ final league match in Mbombela that he was feeling exhausted and was considering stepping down.

The coach revealed that he needed to hold discussions with club management regarding his future, sentiments he repeated during the club’s trophy tour with sponsors last week.

However, the former Morocco international has now put those doubts to rest after sharing a heartfelt message on Instagram directed at his technical team. In the post, he reflected on the season’s success and looked ahead to next season, effectively confirming that he will continue leading the Buccaneers.

“I am writing these few words from the bottom of my heart to send you my most sincere congratulations and my deepest thanks,” wrote Ouaddou.

“Thank you for your hard work, your invaluable expertise, your constant dedication, your sacrifices, and above all, for your boundless love for football and for our club, Orlando Pirates.

“As evidenced by the wonderful memory of our victorious crew in those photos, we have accomplished a monumental amount of work this season. Together, we have put an end to a 14-year drought. Like true pirates, we have sailed every sea and ocean, braving the storms, to finally bring the treasure home.

“This season, we managed to make our wonderful (and oh so demanding) fans deeply happy. I wholeheartedly hope that we continue to bring this immense joy into their daily lives next season.”

The statement will come as welcome news for Pirates supporters, who had grown concerned following the coach’s recent comments regarding his future.