Ouaddou says new Orlando Pirates signings bring ‘freshness’ and strong values ahead of new season

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou says his new recruits have “integrated well” and will add “freshness” to the Betway Premiership champions as they prepare for the defence of their title.

Pirates have bolstered their squad with seven arrivals: Sebastian Perdesen, Mthetheleli Mthiyane, Sbangani Zulu, Gamphani Lungu, Bohlale Ngwato, Neo Rapoo and Aphiwe Baliti.

Speaking at a press conference at Rand Stadium on Tuesday afternoon, ahead of Saturday’s match against Milford FC, Ouaddou reserved particular praise for midfielder Matome Mmolai, who has stepped up from the Motsepe Foundation Championship and previously played for Leicesterford City FC.

The coach described Mmolai as “a breathe of fresh air” and said he already looks fully at home in the Buccaneers squad.

“It’s like he’s already with us, it’s like he was already playing with us,” Ouaddou said, highlighting the way the midfielder has adapted since his arrival from the lower division.

‘They have good values’

Ouaddou stressed that character was as important as football ability in Pirates’ recruitment this off-season, arguing that strong personal foundations were essential for any player joining his squad.

“I’m not going to speak about all of them, but generally, globally, I think these players, what I have noticed, and I think it’s where the club is very good when they’re scouting the players,” he told the media.

“The type of players they bring in terms of human values, the values are very important. Because if you want to work with some players, the strong foundation that they must have is values, and they have good values.”

The Moroccan coach said the club’s scouting and recruitment team had focused on finding players who would fit both the dressing room culture and the long-term project at Orlando Pirates.

Fresh energy and technical quality

Beyond their off-field qualities, Ouaddou believes the new signings will raise the team’s level on the pitch as Pirates look to maintain their domestic dominance in the Betway Premiership.

“Sportively, I think they bring us some freshness, some aim, technicality as well,” he said.

Using Mmolai as an example of that impact, Ouaddou pointed to the energy and attitude the former Motsepe Foundation Championship player has brought since linking up with the first team.

“If you see, I’ll take one for example, Matome (Mmolai) that he brings us this freshness from the lower division,” the coach said, again emphasising how seamlessly the midfielder has settled into the squad.

Ouaddou added that senior figures in the changing room had played a key role in helping all the newcomers adapt quickly to life at Pirates.

“I think they really integrated well, and the senior players helped them to integrate,” he explained.

Patience and long-term vision

While excited by the potential of his new additions, Ouaddou urged caution over expectations, insisting that some will need time to grow into regular roles.

“But I’m sure we’ll have to be, for some of them, patient, because we don’t have to burn them but to bring them step by step,” he said.

“Because I think the club has a vision. Has a project for them, and it’s up to us to build them and to bring them step by step to the highest level.”

Pirates, who were crowned Betway Premiership champions last season, will use Saturday’s fixture against Milford FC as another opportunity to assess their options before the new campaign begins, with Ouaddou keen to blend his established core with the influx of fresh talent.