Orlando Pirates confirm Mandla Ncikazi exit amid Golden Arrows links

Orlando Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi is leaving the club to take up a head coach position with another team in the Premier Soccer League.

Pirates confirmed the departure on Thursday after Ncikazi held discussions with the club’s management and made clear his wish to return to a head coaching role.

Ncikazi leaves having been part of the Pirates technical team during a period in which the club won nine trophies. He served mainly as an assistant coach, with a short spell as co-coach in 2025.

Orlando Pirates chairman Dr Irvin Khoza thanked Ncikazi for his service and said the club supported his decision to pursue a new opportunity.

“Mandla leaves with our gratitude and our blessing. His contribution to Orlando Pirates has been evident throughout his time with us. We respect his wish to pursue this new opportunity and wish him success as he takes on a new responsibility,” said Dr Khoza.

Ncikazi has been strongly linked with a return to former club Golden Arrows.

Golden Arrows recently parted ways with head coach Pitso Dladla, although Ncikazi’s next destination has not yet been confirmed.

Pirates have not provided further details about the club he is expected to join.