Abdeslam Ouaddou sets sights on ending Mamelodi Sundowns’ reign with ambitious Orlando Pirates project

Abdeslam Ouaddou has declared his intention to challenge Mamelodi Sundowns’ longstanding supremacy in South African football as he begins his tenure as head coach of Orlando Pirates.

The Moroccan tactician replaces José Rivieiro, who departed at the end of his contract to take charge of Egyptian giants Al Ahly. Ouaddou steps into the role with the full backing of a club determined to break a cycle of near misses, having finished runners-up to Sundowns for three consecutive seasons.

His mission is clear: to guide the Buccaneers to the summit of South African football and dismantle the dominance of a team that has ruled the league in recent years. For Ouaddou, the weight of expectation is a challenge he embraces.

“It’s a positive pressure,” he said. “When you arrive at a club of this magnitude, not only in South Africa but across the continent, you know that you are not brought here to be comfortable. You’re brought here to compete and to win.”

Ouaddou’s arrival signals a new chapter in Orlando Pirates’ ambitious project, and the coach is under no illusion about the task ahead. His vision is underpinned by strong support from the club’s leadership, a passionate fanbase, and a clear determination to return the team to the top.

To strengthen their title bid, Pirates have been active in the transfer market. The additions of Oswin Appollis, Sipho Mbule, and Sihle Nduli reflect a calculated and ambitious recruitment strategy, designed to bolster the squad’s quality and depth.

“I understand the expectations of the fans and the board,” Ouaddou continued. “I will give my all to meet those ambitions. We’re building on solid foundations from the past three seasons. Now, it’s time to take the final step forward.”

The new campaign kicks off this weekend, with Pirates hosting Sekhukhune United at Orlando Stadium. The visitors, who secured a fourth-place finish in the previous league season, represent a stern early test for Ouaddou’s side. The outcome will serve as an early indication of how quickly the team is adapting to their new manager’s philosophy.

Ouaddou is fully aware of the importance of a strong start and has wasted no time in instilling his message within the squad. “The players know what’s at stake. They’ve done excellent work over the past few years. We must continue and push harder. This season brings a major challenge.”

With a refreshed squad, renewed purpose, and a coach unafraid to voice his ambitions, Orlando Pirates are entering the new season with determination to upend the established hierarchy.

Whether Ouaddou can deliver on his bold objectives remains to be seen, but the tone has unmistakably been set: the Buccaneers are no longer content with second place.