Coach Makes Shock Decision! Former Fulham and Rennes star dumps Marumo Gallants after guiding PSL club to safety and Nedbank Cup semi-finals

Head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has decided to leave Marumo Gallants after just a few months in charge of the Premier Soccer League side.

The French-Moroccan tactician issued a statement on Saturday night announcing his departure from the Bloemfontein-based club. 

"I would like to announce with this press release the end of the adventure with the Marumo Gallants club," a statement read.

"It has been great pleasure to have collaborated with all the resources of the club. I would like to thank first of all my players, my President, as well as all the stakeholders of the club who participated from near or far in this mission to save the club, without forgetting our magnificent supporters. 

"The people of Bloemfontein will remain in my heart forever. I wish the best to Marumo Gallants as well as to my players. I love you guys. I obviously remain open to any proposal for an ambitious project and determined to take on a new challenge. 

"Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou."

Ouaddou joined Gallants in March earlier this year, replacing Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates legend Dan Malesela.

The former Fulham defender managed to guide Siwelele Sa Marumo to a tenth-placed finish in the PSL and also reach the Nedbank Cup semi-finals.

Prior to joining Gallants, Ouaddou had resigned as AS Vita Club head coach in September 2024 following the Congolese giants' defeat to Stellenbosch FC in the Caf Confederation Cup.ld Cup.

Gallants will have to start the search for a new coach who will replace Ouaddou ahead of the 2025/26 season, which is expected to start in August.

It remains to be seen where Ouaddou will turn up next following his shock exit from Siwelele Sa Marumo.