Orlando Pirates boss hails Deon Hotto as an African legend before emotional African Stars reunion

Deon Hotto will face African Stars for the first time since leaving the Namibian club almost 14 years ago, with Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou describing the 35-year-old as an “African legend”.

Hotto, a Namibian international and proud son of Swakopmund, moved to South Africa’s Premier Soccer League (PSL) in 2014 after being scouted by Golden Arrows and brought to Durban. He has since established a distinguished career in South African football.

The meeting with African Stars in Gaborone, Botswana, is therefore a significant occasion for Hotto, who has gone on to win several trophies and make a lasting impression at Orlando Pirates.

Ouaddou, who is in only his second season working with the veteran winger, believes Hotto’s achievements have made him an example for footballers across the continent.

“If you have to go deep, a little bit deep about Hotto, he’s an African legend, not only for South Africa. Of course he’s a legend for Orlando Pirates but for me this kind of player is a role model in our continent,” Ouaddou said.

“The number of trophies that he won for the club, the number of games, the number of assists, the numbers talk for him.”

Hotto’s influence, the coach added, extends beyond his performances and statistics. His continued presence at the club provides an example for younger Namibian players hoping to build professional careers.

“It’s just important that he’s with us, it can give a very good example for the young Namibian players to show that when we are professional and committed everything is possible in football as long as you believe and you trust yourself and your work. We are happy to have him still in our club,” Ouaddou said.

Hotto praised as ambassador for Namibian football

The admiration for Hotto is not limited to his work during matches. He is also regarded as an important figure in the Orlando Pirates dressing room and a role model for his approach to maintaining a long career.

Ouaddou said Hotto’s professionalism and discipline reflected well on Namibian football.

“When you see, when you watch the longevity of Hotto and the way that he’s playing, the commitment, the passion, the professionalism of that, it says a lot about the personality of Namibian players,” the coach explained.

He also pointed to the experience around Hotto at Orlando Pirates, including captain Nkosinathi Sibisi, Makhaula Makhehleni and Tapelo Xoku.

“For a coach like me and ex players, I’m watching a lot, the behaviour, the daily behaviour, how you are training, how you are managing your career, how you are managing your body and have the captain [Nkosinathi Sibisi] as well that’s experience.

“We have Makhaula [Makhehleni], you know, Tapelo [Xoku] and for me it says a lot. If you are able to play for such a long time, it means that you are smart and clever about how you manage your body.”