The Buccaneers boast enviable depth across the pitch, giving head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou options in every department. But that strength has a shadow side: talented players slipping down the pecking order, roles shrinking confidence fading, and careers stalling as competition intensifies in a squad built to challenge on all fronts.

His absence from recent matchday squads has raised questions, forcing his agent to clear the air amid his absence. The arrival of head coach Adeslam Ouaddou gave the forward a new lease of life, as he was the preferred striker when the season began. Speculation around his future has intensified over the recent weeks, but what has kept him out of the team has been revealed.

Although his position in the first team looked uncertain when the season began, the star played a crucial role as the Sea Robbers stamped authority on the domestic trophy. His hunger and determination have been picked as traits that set him apart.

The Buccaneers kick off their CAF Champions League campaign this weekend with a Preliminary Round clash against Lesotho’s Lioli FC at Free State Stadium, reigniting their quest for a second continental crown.

The Buccaneers are preparing for arguably their biggest match of the 2025/26 season but there is a handicap that could work against them.

Despite being the Buccaneers' top scorer in the past two seasons, the 28-year-old finds himself as a peripheral figure this term.