Orlando Pirates supporters can breathe a sigh of relief after head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou emphatically dismissed speculation linking him with a move away from the club.
The Moroccan tactician, who guided the Buccaneers to a memorable domestic treble last season, has pledged his loyalty to the Soweto giants and says he has returned from the off-season feeling “2,000%” refreshed.
‘I’m back’
Ouaddou raised eyebrows at the end of the 2025/26 campaign when he admitted he was mentally exhausted after leading one of Africa’s biggest clubs through a gruelling season.
Those comments sparked rumours that he could leave Orlando Pirates, with reports linking him to clubs in North Africa and Europe.
However, speaking from the club’s pre-season camp in Spain after Wednesday’s draw with Córdoba, the 47-year-old made it clear he has no intention of walking away.
“I really had a good time. I was honest with people, I felt tiredness because leading such a big club with fantastic fans is demanding.
“Everybody knows that it’s demanding, so I don’t understand why some people don’t understand why the coach can be tired.”
He then delivered the message every Orlando Pirates supporter wanted to hear.
“But I’m back, I recharged all my batteries, not 100%, I’m 2 000%.”
‘I must be loyal’
Ouaddou also rubbished reports suggesting he could be tempted by offers from overseas.
“I’ve read a lot of things with people saying, ‘Coach has offers in North Africa and Europe’.”
Instead, he reaffirmed his commitment to chairman Dr Irvin Khoza and the club’s leadership.
“People have to understand that I’m very loyal… I have a lot of respect for these people.
“They have given me the opportunity to lead such a big club. Not everyone is given this opportunity, so I must be loyal.”
Huge news for the Buccaneers
Abdeslam Ouaddou’s comments will come as welcome news for the Ghost Nation.
After delivering the MTN8, Carling Knockout Cup and Betway Premiership titles in his first season in charge, continuity on the touchline was one of the club’s biggest priorities heading into the new campaign.
With the coach fully committed and declaring himself re-energised, Pirates can now focus on building towards another title challenge while also targeting a deep run in the CAF Champions League.
For Buccaneers supporters, Ouaddou’s strongest message was also his simplest: he isn’t going anywhere.
