Mmolai ‘looks like a long-time Pirate’ as Ouaddou hails impact of new signing

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou says new midfielder Matome Mmolai has settled so quickly at the club that “it feels like he’s already been playing for us for a long time”, as the Soweto side prepare to open their Betway Premiership campaign.

Mmolai, 23, is one of around nine new arrivals brought in during an aggressive recruitment drive in Mayfair ahead of a demanding season, and is already emerging as one of the standout additions in Ouaddou’s eyes.

The central midfielder was officially unveiled by the Buccaneers in June before the squad’s pre-season tour to Spain, joining from Motsepe Foundation Championship side Leicesterford City with significant expectations on his shoulders.

Speaking to the media at the club’s base on Tuesday, Ouaddou described Mmolai as a “raw diamond” and suggested the former second-tier player could have a prominent role to play this term.

“The club does a great job when scouting players,” Ouaddou said. “The type of players they bring in terms of human values is very important because if you want to work with a player, a strong foundation of values is essential.

“On the pitch, I think the new players bring us real freshness. To take one example, Matome brings us that energy from the lower division. It feels like he’s already been playing for us for a long time.”

Competition in Pirates midfield

Mmolai, who operates as an energetic central midfielder, joins a congested area of the pitch, where he will have to compete with established regulars and fellow new signings for a place in Ouaddou’s preferred starting XI.

The coach, though clearly impressed by the youngster’s early contribution, stressed that the technical team must balance excitement with patience as they integrate their new faces.

“The new players are integrating well, but for some, we must remain patient,” he continued. “We shouldn’t rush them, but rather develop them step by step because the club has a clear vision for their future, and it’s up to us to build them.”

Ouaddou’s remarks underline Pirates’ broader strategy in the transfer market, with the club targeting players they believe can both strengthen the current squad and grow over the coming seasons.

High expectations at Orlando Amstel Arena

The Sea Robbers’ recruitment push is designed to equip the squad for the intensity of the upcoming campaign, domestically and potentially in cup competitions, with depth in key positions seen as essential.

Pirates begin their much-anticipated Betway Premiership season on Saturday when they host league newcomers Milford FC at the Orlando Amstel Arena, where attention will turn to which of the new arrivals, including Mmolai, have done enough in pre-season to earn a starting berth.

While Ouaddou stopped short of confirming whether Mmolai will feature from the outset, his praise suggests the former Leicesterford City man has already made a compelling case to be involved as Pirates look to start their league programme on the front foot.