Former Orlando Pirates striker cautions Abdeslam Ouaddou of huge task of replacing Jose Riveiro - 'If he does not start well, he will be under immense pressure'

Former Orlando Pirates striker Andries Sebola has pointed out the biggest challenge Abdeslam Ouaddou might face as he begins his career as Bucs' head coach.

Although Seloba believes Ouaddou has an advantage of having worked in the Premier Soccer League before, he says his biggest challenge is to match what Jose Riveiro delivered.

“I wouldn’t say I’ve seen that much of him during his time at Marumo Gallants, but clearly Pirates have been impressed by what he did there and maybe before then even,” Sebola told iDiski Times.

“I think the good thing is that he comes in with some knowledge of the PSL, and that is going to be an advantage, and he might do well. The challenge he faces is that he is taking over from a coach who has done very well at Pirates and one who was liked by the fans, who will be expecting him to do much better," he added.

Ouaddou has also been asked to ensure he starts well because a poor start will put him under immense pressure.

“And if he does not start well, he will be under immense pressure, and we know how that can be at Pirates," Sebola pointed out.

"They are big boots he is coming in to fill, and my hope is that the players quickly adapt to his ways. He, too, will have to be careful not to change the way Pirates play too much—Riveiro has laid a good foundation, and all he has to do is build on it," he continued.

After waiting for some time, Pirates' fans finally learned who was going to take the mantle from Riveiro.

Although he has limited PSL experience, Ouaddou will be judged by how he matches or surpasses what Riveiro achieved.

The Spaniard managed to turn himself into a fan-favourite coach by winning five trophies across three seasons.

However, he failed to win the PSL title, and given that this is one of Bucs' top priorities, Ouaddou will be judged on how he will fare on this front.

His appointment was made before Pirates embark on a pre-season tour in Spain.

This pre-season programme will give him a platform to familiarise himself with his players and the club's culture before the season begins.