Orlando Pirates Appoint Abdeslam Ouaddou as New Head Coach with Confirmed Technical Team

Orlando Pirates Football Club has confirmed the appointment of Moroccan tactician Abdeslam Ouaddou as the new Head Coach ahead of the 2025/26 season. He replaces Jose Riveiro, who stepped down following a successful three-year spell to join Egyptian giants Al Ahly.

A Familiar Face to South African Football

While Ouaddou may be new to the Pirates bench, he is no stranger to South African football. The 46-year-old was most recently at the helm of Marumo Gallants, where he made a notable impact. Despite challenges at the club, Ouaddou impressed with his tactical approach and player management. He resigned from Marumo Gallants shortly before accepting the Pirates job, paving the way for his move to Mayfair.

Playing & Coaching Background

Born in Alnif, Morocco, Ouaddou boasts an impressive playing career. A former international defender for Morocco, he earned 68 caps for the Atlas Lions and represented his country at multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.

At club level, Ouaddou featured in Europe’s top leagues, playing for:

• AS Nancy, Stade Rennais, and Valenciennes (France)
• Olympiacos (Greece)
• Clubs in the Qatar Stars League

After hanging up his boots, Ouaddou transitioned into coaching and development roles. He worked within Morocco’s national structures and the prestigious Aspire Academy in Qatar, focusing on youth development and modern coaching methods. His South African stint with Marumo Gallants provided him with valuable insight into the local football landscape.

Confirmed Orlando Pirates Technical Team

The Buccaneers have confirmed the full technical team to support Ouaddou in the upcoming campaign:

🇲🇦 Abdeslam Ouaddou – Head Coach
🇿🇦 Mandla Ncikazi – Assistant Coach
🇿🇦 Rayaan Jacobs – Assistant Coach
🇿🇦 Tyron Damons – Goalkeeper Coach
🇹🇳 Helmi Gueldich – Strength & Conditioning Coach

Ouaddou is expected to arrive in South Africa later this week to begin working with the squad, with pre-season preparations kicking off on June 27.

Pre-Season Tour to Spain

As part of their build-up to the new season, Orlando Pirates will embark on their third consecutive international pre-season tour to Marbella, Spain, from July 8 to July 20. The Buccaneers will face competitive European opposition, including:

• Bolton Wanderers (England)
• Pafos FC (Cyprus)
• Las Palmas (Spain)
• Granada (Spain)

The tour will provide Ouaddou with an opportunity to assess his squad and implement his tactical philosophy ahead of what promises to be an exciting and challenging season.

Bucs Fans Anticipate New Era

With an experienced coach familiar with both international football and the South African game, combined with a well-balanced technical team, Orlando Pirates are gearing up to compete for silverware both domestically and on the African continent.

The arrival of Ouaddou signals a fresh chapter for the Sea Robbers as they strive for continued success and dominance in South African football.