Abdeslam Ouaddou has revealed that he was prepared to resign after Orlando Pirates suffered back-to-back defeats against Sekhukhune United and Polokwane City earlier this season.
The Moroccan tactician joined the Buccaneers in July, replacing Jose Riveiro, who guided the club to five trophies in three seasons.
Ouaddou’s appointment initially received mixed reactions from supporters, and consecutive league defeats at the start of the campaign intensified pressure on the former Fulham FC defender.
Speaking after leading Pirates to their first league title in 14 years, Ouaddou admitted he offered to step down after the disappointing start, but the club’s management refused to accept his resignation.
“When I lost the first two matches, I didn’t have a choice but to propose my resignation to the management, but they gave me a chance and supported me with fantastic people around me,” said Ouaddou.
“They didn’t want to hear about that. They said, ‘No, we interviewed you five times and we know you are the man who can lead us to the promised land.’
“They supported me and gave me confidence, so the credit has to go to them.”
Despite delivering league success, Ouaddou’s long-term future at Pirates remains uncertain. The 47-year-old said he would take time to reflect before making a final decision on whether he will continue at the club next season.
“I had the chance to play at the highest level for 14 years, so I’m not chasing contracts or money. I’m doing this job because of passion,” he added.
Ouaddou could leave Pirates after one season
“I wanted to do it on my continent, in Africa, but you need energy, power and motivation because leading Pirates is not easy.
“You cannot lie to people, this job is very difficult.”
Ouaddou will not be the first coach to leave Pirates immediately after winning the league. Ruud Krol and Gordon Igesund left the club after winning the league.
