Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou explains bold squad rotation strategy

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has reaffirmed his commitment to rotating his squad throughout the 2025/26 season, insisting that a club of Pirates’ stature cannot rely on the same players every matchday.

Ouaddou has already introduced fresh faces into the starting lineup, with youngsters such as Camren Dansin, Yanela Mbuthuma and Nkosikhona Ndaba earning opportunities. He believes this approach is essential to maintaining competitiveness across all fronts.

“You cannot have a squad of 30 players and consistently select the same 18,” Ouaddou emphasised.

“It doesn’t make sense. You risk injuries and lose intensity. It’s important to evolve the group and give everyone a chance.”

He also addressed concerns over limited starts for some senior players, explaining that match fitness and readiness are non-negotiable.

“The high intensity we demand requires players to be fully fit. If someone is returning from injury, we cannot rush them back and risk further setbacks,” he said.

Ouaddou praised the impact of younger players, describing Dansin as “a very talented young South African player who deserves the opportunity to express himself,” and applauded Ndaba’s contribution from left-back.

Following their CAF Champions League exit, Ouaddou made it clear that the team’s mentality remains unchanged.

“Our target is always the same – to compete in every competition with the ambition to win. The Champions League is over, but it doesn’t change our plan or our belief.”

Orlando Pirates now shift their focus to a top-of-the-table clash against Mamelodi Sundowns this weekend at Loftus Versfeld.