Pirates Announce A Shock Coach Appointment

In a surprising move, Orlando Pirates announced Abdeslam Ouaddou as their new head coach on Monday morning.

This appointment comes as a shock to many in the football fraternity.

“Orlando Pirates Football Club is pleased to announce the appointment of Abdeslam Ouaddou as Head Coach,” the club stated in their official post.

The Moroccan coach previously managed Marumo Gallants, guiding them to a 10th-place finish last season. Ouaddou had confirmed his resignation from Gallants on social media following the conclusion of the previous term. He took charge during a challenging period for Gallants in March, arriving after the club had sacked Dan Malesela and was battling the threat of relegation.

During his 12 matches at the helm of Gallants, the former AS Vita Club coach secured five wins, four draws, and three losses. He also led Gallants to the semi-final of the Nedbank Cup, where they were ultimately defeated by his new club, Orlando Pirates.

Ouaddou replaces Jose Riveiro, who departed last season to take up a position with Al Ahly. Riveiro, who joined Pirates in June 2022, enjoyed significant success, winning five trophies and cementing his place as one of the most decorated coaches in the PSL club’s history.