Orlando Pirates set to retain Mxolisi Mngomezulu in technical team after Mandla Ncikazi exit

Orlando Pirates are expected to keep Mxolisi Mngomezulu involved with the first team as part of Abdeslam Ouaddou’s technical staff following the departure of assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi.

Pirates confirmed on Thursday that Ncikazi would leave the club to take up a head coaching role in the PSL.

He has since been appointed head coach of Lamontville Golden Arrows, returning to the club he previously managed before moving to Pirates in 2021.

Mngomezulu has worked around the senior squad in recent months, offering technical support to Ouaddou alongside assistant coach Rayaan Jacobs.

His role became more prominent in August, when Ncikazi was granted time away from his duties to concentrate on his recovery after undergoing knee surgery. Mngomezulu then stepped in to provide additional support to the first team.

A long-standing member of Pirates’ development setup, Mngomezulu has established himself through his work with younger players. His involvement with the senior side has also been acknowledged by Ouaddou.

In recent matchday squad listings, Mngomezulu was identified as “Technical Staff”, while Jacobs was named as assistant coach. Pirates’ official technical team page also lists Mngomezulu as an analyst.

With Ncikazi having now left the club, Mngomezulu is understood to be set to continue working with the first team.

Pirates have not, however, announced an official change to Mngomezulu’s title or confirmed an appointment to replace Ncikazi as assistant coach.

The Buccaneers are preparing for the next stage of their campaign under Ouaddou, while the make-up of his technical team is likely to remain under scrutiny following Ncikazi’s departure.