Pirates coach Ouaddou returns with a strapped arm after car accident

Orlando Pirates fans can breathe a sigh of relief. Head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou is back on the training pitch.

The French-Moroccan coach, recovering from a serious car accident last month, was spotted today at training with his arm heavily strapped but his focus fully on the job at hand.

Saturday brings the MTN8 final against Stellenbosch FC, and Ouaddou is determined to have his Orlando Pirates team firing on all cylinders despite his recent setback.

ORLANDO PIRATES COACH ABDESLAM OUADDOU RETURNS AHEAD OF THE MTN8 FINAL AGAINST STELLENBOSCH FC

As reported last week, Ouaddou and several staff members got injured in Gqeberha following the team’s 3-0 win over Chippa United at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

The club’s statement had confirmed: “Orlando Pirates Football Club can confirm that Head Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou and five members of the club’s staff were involved in a road traffic incident on Sunday night.

“The incident occurred on the R21 highway as the team returned from Gqeberha, following their hard-fought 3–0 victory against Chippa United. Upon encountering a collision between two vehicles, Coach Ouaddou and several staff members disembarked from the team bus to assist those involved. Tragically, while attending to the scene, a Nissan NP200 vehicle collided with the stationary vehicles, striking the group and causing serious injuries.

“Coach Ouaddou, along with the five affected staff members, were immediately transported to hospital, where they are currently receiving medical care. The Club is in close contact with the medical team and will provide updates on their recovery in due course.“

Meanwhile, all eyes will be on Mbombela Stadium this Saturday as the MTN8 final kicks off at 18:00.