Orlando Pirates players put on notice after Abdeslam Ouaddou's arrival - 'Regardless of your age... You don't give your best, you’re only hurting yourself'

Abdeslam Ouaddou was recently confirmed as the successor to Jose Riveiro at Orlando Pirates, ahead of the new season.

The position fell vacant after the Spaniard opted for a new challenge with Egyptian champions Al Ahly after serving the Soweto giants for three years.

Coaching the Buccaneers is a massive upgrade for the former Morocco international, who had a short stint with Marumo Gallants before parting ways.

While at Gallants, Ouaddou delivered as anticipated despite joining mid-way through the 2024/25 season.

He saved them from a potential relegation battle to the 10th position before opting out due to reasons that were not explained clearly by the involved parties.

The former versatile defender has a massive task to fit into the huge shoes Riveiro left at Bucs.

Vusi Sibiya, who played under Ouaddou at Gallants, is convinced the tactician will deliver.

“Coach Abdee is a good coach;. all I can say to Pirates is that he demands hard work from his players," he told SNL24.

"As long as you put in the effort, you’ll get a chance to play in his team. He doesn’t show favouritism, and he selects players purely on merit.
“If you perform in training, you will play. It’s as simple as that, regardless of your age," Sibisi continued.

"Whether you’re a youngster or an experienced player, performance is what earns you a spot.
“He’s a man of principles who values a high work rate, and when it’s time to work, there’s no room for messing around. With that coach, if you’re not giving your best, you’re only hurting yourself, because you won’t play," he concluded.

Pirates are set for pre-season in Spain where the players will have a chance to impress the new technical bench in their bid to be regulars.

However, the main assignment will be at the hands of Ouaddou who has no option but to deliver.