Betway Premiership giants Orlando Pirates have announced Abdeslam Ouaddou as their new head coach.
The announcement comes as a surprise after media reports suggested the club was close to appointing former Wydad and Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena .
Orlando Pirates pick Abdeslam Ouaddou as coachIn a statement on Monday 23 June, Orlando Pirates said Ouaddou will take over the reins ahead of the 2025/2026 season. However, it did not reveal the terms of his contract.
Born in Alnif, Morocco, the 46-year-old brings a wealth of experience both as a player and a tactician. A former Moroccan international, Ouaddou earned 68 caps for The Atlas Lions and enjoyed a distinguished playing career across several top European leagues, the Bucs said.
His deep understanding of the game, coupled with a strong leadership profile, positions him well to lead the Buccaneers into a new era.
The new tactician is expected to arrive in South Africa towards the end of the week. He will be assisted by Mandla Ncikazi , Rayaan Jacobs, Helmi Gueldich and Tyron Damons.
He succeeds Jose Riveiro , who said goodbye to the Buccaneers in May and is now in charge of Egyptian giants Al Ahly.
Ouaddou had a short stint at Marumo Gallants head coach last season after arriving in March. He mentored them for 12 matches, during which they won five, drew four and lost three.
He guided them to a 10th-place finish in the Betway Premiership at a time they were facing relegation after sacking previous coach Dan Malesela. Gallants also reached the Nedbank Cup semifinals under his guidance but lost to his new club Pirates.
However, he announced his departure from Gallants at the end of the season after the club reportedly could not guarantee his salary.