Orlando Pirates legend rates Abdeslam Ouaddou's surprise appointment as Bucs coach - 'I don't think he did bad, it's just that he got there late'

Orlando Pirates opted to go with Abdeslam Ouaddou as their new coach after the departure of Jose Riveiro, who is currently the tactician at Al Ahly.

The former Morocco international had a brief stint with Marumo Gallants but ended up lifting them from the relegation zone to the 10th position on the Premier Soccer League table.

Despite his limited experience in Mzansi, Bucs legend Edward Motale is convinced Ouaddou will deliver under pressure.

"Me, I have a belief in [Ouaddou], he coached 12 games at Marumo, personally I don't think he did bad, it's just that he got there late in the season, you get me," he told KickOff. 
"The other thing that gave me the belief was that I saw his background, he did play this game, club and national level.
"So he knows what it takes, that's why I don't doubt him.

"I've got a belief in him, from the few games he coached at Marumo, where there are not even big names, you see. But those few games he made a big difference," Motale concluded.

Riveiro left Pirates when the team was at the top, having finished second in the Premier Soccer League three seasons in a row, as well as claiming five trophies.

In his last year at the club, the Spaniard helped the Sea Robbers reach the Caf Champions League semi-final.

Bucs management has supported the new man by giving him nine signings to strengthen all the departments.

The Spanish pre-season tour will give Ouaddou a chance to have a look at the players and strategise ahead of the forthcoming edition.

It goes without saying that the tactician will be expected to deliver instantly or risk the axe.