GOALWhile his tactical approach is still taking shape, Ouaddou’s background as a defender offers a strong hint about where his priorities will lie. It’s clear that shoring up the defence will be his first focus - a crucial foundation for any successful team. Alongside this, he’s equally determined to ensure the Buccaneers remain potent going forward, balancing solidity with attacking ambition.
Here, GOAL zooms into Ouaddou's new life at Pirates and examine how he should navigate his first season.
Orlando PiratesBefore his official appointment, Ouaddou openly expressed admiration for Sipho Mbule, saying he’d love to have a player of his caliber in the squad. With Mbule now on board, it’s a clear sign that he’s set to play a pivotal role in Ouaddou’s plans. At the same time, the coach will need to carefully manage some of the team’s other stars, including Bafana Bafana internationals Oswin Appollis and Patrick Maswanganyi. These players are invaluable at the national level, so Ouaddou must strike the right balance between club and country duties - ensuring they stay match-fit without getting sidelined.
Orlando PiratesJose Riveiro may have initially faced skepticism - some even branded him a “Plumber” - but he quickly proved the doubters wrong by delivering five cup titles in just three seasons. Pirates fans have been spoiled by this run of success, and Ouaddou now faces the daunting task of maintaining that high standard. Winning at least one trophy in his debut season would not only be a statement of intent but also win over the hearts of the Pirates faithful, easing his transition as head coach.
BackpageEvery great team is built around a strong core - the spine that holds everything together. For Pirates, this includes goalkeeper Sipho Chaine; defenders and Bafana Bafana stalwarts Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Nkosinathi Sibisi; midfielders Deon Hotto and the currently injured Makhehlene Makhaula; alongside young talent Relebohile Mofokeng. While Ouaddou may be tempted to make personnel changes, preserving and strengthening this core will be essential to keeping the team stable and competitive.
BackpagepixWith new signings expected, the saying “a new broom sweeps clean” certainly applies. But Ouaddou will need to tread carefully - introducing fresh talent without upsetting the chemistry or causing rifts among established players who know their places are under threat. Successfully blending experienced squad members with newcomers will be critical for a smooth transition and maintaining harmony within the dressing room.
CafLast season saw Pirates come heartbreakingly close, reaching the semi-finals but falling short of the final. For Ouaddou, making amends in the CAF Champions League must be a top priority. South African teams haven’t lifted the coveted trophy in some time, and Pirates will be hungry to change that narrative.
BackpagePerhaps the biggest challenge for Ouaddou is ending Pirates’ eight-season drought at the pinnacle of the Premier Soccer League. For nearly a decade, they’ve played second fiddle to the dominant Mamelodi Sundowns - the perennial bridesmaids to their rivals’ glory. While cup wins have brought joy, Pirates fans are yearning for a PSL title to truly reclaim their status at the summit of South African football. Ouaddou must channel every ounce of his focus and expertise to wrestle that crown away from Sundowns and bring it home where it belongs.
Orlasndo Pirates
