Ouaddou Explains Dlamini’s Absence Amid Injury Setback

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has revealed that midfielder Kabelo Dlamini has been sidelined by a long-term injury, explaining his lack of game time this season.

Dlamini’s absence from the starting line-up has been a major talking point among Buccaneers supporters, especially after the influential role he played in previous campaigns. 

Addressing the issue, Ouaddou made it clear that the former Bloemfontein Celtic midfielder has been unavailable due to fitness problems rather than selection decisions.

“Dlamini is injured at the moment, and I don’t know if you knew about that,” Ouaddou said. 

“It’s been three weeks since he was injured. But I’m sure he is coming back, and he is in rehabilitation.”

The 29-year-old was a key figure under former coach Jose Riveiro, featuring regularly and helping the Buccaneers secure five domestic trophies – three MTN8 titles and two Nedbank Cups. 

Dlamini’s energy, creativity, and ability to link play made him one of the most dependable players in the squad during that successful period.

This season, however, has presented a completely different picture. 

Dlamini has managed only nine appearances in all competitions, providing two assists, and all of those outings have come from the bench as he is yet to start a match. 

The midfielder’s last taste of action came on 29 November when Pirates defeated Durban City 2-0, with the midfielder introduced after 80 minutes and playing just 11 minutes.