Former Ruud Krol head coach Orlando Pirates has revealed that he still closely follows his former club despite living abroad.
The 77-year-old enjoyed a hugely successful three-year spell with the Buccaneers, guiding them to their first-ever treble during the 2010/11 season.
Now Pirates are on the verge of repeating that historic achievement, needing just one win from their remaining two league matches to complete another memorable treble-winning campaign.
Speaking to Robert Marawa on 947 in September, the Dutch football legend reflected on his time at the Soweto giants and admitted he still keeps a close eye on their progress.
“I heard that they haven’t forgotten me and of course I have not forgotten Pirates,” said Krol.
“I’m always checking their results and how they are doing, but it’s difficult to watch PSL matches in Europe, which is a pity.
“I still hope that they do well.”
Krol also opened up about the circumstances surrounding his departure from Pirates despite leading the club to unprecedented success.
“No, no, no, it was a conversation,” he explained.
“When we lost to Kaizer Chiefs in December, they signed Julio Leal, the Brazilian coach. I knew about it, although they didn’t know that I knew.
Krol on why he left Pirates
“That created problems because I was winning matches and there were always talks that the chairman wanted to speak to me next week, but nobody came.
“I then said if nobody is coming, there are other clubs in the world besides Pirates.”
The former Dutch defender also believes the Buccaneers had all the ingredients to go on and win the CAF Champions League the following season.
“We had a good defence, a strong midfield and attack. With that combination and compact defending, of course we could build a perfect squad,” Krol added.
Abdeslam Ouaddou could become the first Pirates coach since Krol to win a treble if the Buccaneers win any of their remaining matches this season.
