Ncikazi refuses to discuss reported Ouaddou fallout after Arrows defeat

Golden Arrows coach Mandla Ncikazi has declined to comment on speculation about a breakdown in his relationship with Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou during their time at the Buccaneers.

Ncikazi recently joined Golden Arrows after leaving Orlando Pirates, with his departure accompanied by reports of an internal rift involving Ouaddou. Although Ouaddou said the pair had a good relationship, Ncikazi said he would not publicly discuss difficulties at a former club or risk causing problems at his current one.

“As a man of my age, you don’t talk ill about your former employer because you offend them,” Ncikazi told the media after Golden Arrows’ 1-0 defeat by Mamelodi Sundowns in the Carling Knockout at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Tuesday.

“Equally, when I start talking about my former employer, I’m offending my current employer. Every house has a toilet.

“As a man, you don’t have a responsibility to tell every family member there’s challenges in your family. Even if there was a problem, you are not going to know because I’m a man. I have a responsibility to protect the environment I work for.

“In every club where I’ve worked, there are issues. But I don’t have a responsibility to publicly tell. As a coach, you are a CEO of the company. Protect the environment. I’ve got no comment. I’ve got no issues to answer.”

Ncikazi instead focused on the areas Golden Arrows must improve after their narrow loss to Mamelodi Sundowns. He was particularly unhappy with the team’s performance in the final third, saying they often reached promising positions but failed to produce the right pass or make the correct decision.

The coach said that weakness could prevent his side from winning matches unless it is addressed.

“We will try to make the team better. We got into the areas we wanted to get into, but I’m disappointed in that part where there was one missing link.

“I don’t think we will win games if we don’t make decisions in that final area. But I’m not disappointed with the effort from the boys. They work very hard and there is something to work on and congratulations to Sundowns.”

The defeat left Ncikazi with clear attacking concerns to address, but he praised his players’ commitment and work rate. He also acknowledged Mamelodi Sundowns after their victory in the Carling Knockout match.