BREAKING: Orlando Pirates Appoint New Coach Ahead of 2025/26 Campaign
Orlando Pirates have unveiled a fresh chapter in their storied history with the appointment of Abdeslam Ouaddou. He is the club’s new head coach ahead of the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season.
This announcement comes at a crucial moment, just days before the Soweto giants depart for their pre-season tour in Spain. Ouaddou, a former Marumo Gallants boss, takes over from Jose Riveiro. Riveiro stepped down following a successful three-year spell to take up a new challenge with Egyptian heavyweights Al Ahly.
Ouaddou Brings International Pedigree
Born in Alnif, Morocco, the 46-year-old tactician arrives with a wealth of football knowledge. He gained this both on the pitch and on the sidelines. As a former international defender, Ouaddou earned 68 caps for the Moroccan national team – The Atlas Lions. He also featured for top European clubs in leagues such as Ligue 1, the Premier League, and the Greek Super League.
The club expressed its confidence in the new leadership, stating: “Orlando Pirates Football Club is pleased to announce the appointment of Abdeslam Ouaddou as the new Head Coach. Ouaddou takes over the reins ahead of the new season, replacing Jose Riveiro at the helm following his decision to step down.”
His vast experience, both as a leader and strategist, will inject new energy into the team. They aim for more silverware in the coming campaign.
Familiar Faces on the Bench
The new coach won’t be alone in this mission, with an experienced technical team by his side. This includes trusted Pirates assistant Mandla Ncikazi, fitness specialist Helmi Gueldich, goalkeeping coach Rayaan Jacobs, and performance analyst Tyron Damons.
Together, this revamped technical bench is expected to build on the foundations laid during Riveiro’s era. They will focus on continuity, tactical flexibility, and youth integration.
Spain Tour Marks the Start of Pre-Season
Preparations for the upcoming season are set to kick off officially on 27 June. The Buccaneers will then jet off to Marbella, Spain, where they will hold their third consecutive European pre-season camp. This will take place from 8 to 20 July.
The tour will feature a string of competitive friendlies, offering Ouaddou the chance to test his tactics against international opposition. Pirates are scheduled to face English outfit Bolton Wanderers, Cyprus-based Pafos FC, and Spanish LaLiga sides Las Palmas and Granada. These encounters will serve as critical evaluation opportunities for the new boss. He can assess his squad and implement his game plan.
High Expectations for the New Campaign
The appointment of Ouaddou signals the club’s intent to remain competitive both locally and continentally. With a blend of tactical intelligence, international experience, and a dynamic coaching team, Orlando Pirates appear determined to build on recent success. They aim to challenge for top honors again.
The Buccaneers’ faithful will be eager to see how the new man in charge reshapes the squad. Fans also anticipate how he will manage key fixtures and navigate the demands of a congested fixture list. This includes the league, cup competitions, and potentially continental duties.
As the team prepares to take flight for Spain, excitement is building for what could be a transformative season under Abdeslam Ouaddou’s leadership. The next few months will be pivotal as the new era gets underway at Mayfair.
Related article: Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs Head to Europe for Pre-Season Camps
