Masilela backed to become Orlando Pirates’ next star by coach Ouaddou

Orlando Pirates midfielder Simphiwe Masilela has been described as “one of the best” young players coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has seen after making an impression in 11 appearances this season.

The 22-year-old has emerged as one of the club’s most promising players, following the progress of Mohau Nkota, Relebohile Mofokeng and Mbekezile Mbokazi, who have all gone on to represent Bafana Bafana.

Masilela helped change the momentum of Saturday’s 2-0 defeat by Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 final after coming on as a substitute at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

He produced another influential display on Tuesday, scoring in Orlando Pirates’ 3-0 Betway Premiership victory over TS Galaxy at Orlando Stadium.

Used as a playmaker alongside Simphiwe Selepe and Thapelo Mokobodi, Masilela completed his performance with a well-taken goal.

His form has prompted strong praise from Ouaddou, who believes the player has the ability to develop into a leading figure while warning him not to become distracted by popularity.

The former Morocco international also urged Masilela, who was promoted to the senior side after helping Orlando Pirates win the DStv Diski Challenge under-23 league in 2025-26, to maintain his work ethic.

“It’s up to him. If he wants to continue on this path, he needs to continue working hard. He knows what the requirements are. If he wants to lose himself, he knows the other path,” Ouaddou said.

The coach, who spent six to seven years working with young players at development level in France at the Michel Platini Academy, said Masilela possessed the qualities required to succeed at the highest level.

“What I can tell you is that he has all the attributes, potential and qualities to express himself at the high level.

“I worked for six to seven years at development level in France at the Michel Platini Academy. I have seen lots of young players and he is one of the best I have seen.”

Ouaddou has previously challenged players who attempt to overcomplicate their play, and said his efforts to guide young footballers can sometimes be misunderstood.

“When I try to put these young players on the right path in high-level football and make them leave certain things that are not going to help them, some people are fighting the coach. But without any arrogance and with a lot of humility, we know what we are talking about and where we want to bring our players.”

He added that Masilela’s recent performances reflected exactly what was expected of him in the role.

“If you saw him when he started against Marumo Gallants, you understand what the coach is expecting from him. He played well against Gallants in Rustenburg, he was good in the MTN8 final and against TS Galaxy.

“We have seen what he is capable of. This is exactly what we expect from a modern 10.”