Ouaddou stands by Mbuthuma despite pressure at Orlando Pirates

Abdeslam Ouaddou has defended his decision to continue selecting struggling Orlando Pirates striker Yanela Mbuthuma, insisting he cannot destroy the confidence of a young player despite growing criticism of the forward.

Mbuthuma has been under significant pressure in recent months after failing to convert a number of chances for Pirates. The towering striker has remained the club’s preferred number nine, ahead of options including Evidence Makgopa, who is currently injured.

His lack of goals has become particularly noticeable since the closing stages of Pirates’ Betway Premiership triumph. He has also failed to make a telling contribution at the start of the club’s defence of both the league title and the MTN8.

Several missed opportunities, including chances which appeared easier to score than miss, have led to calls for Ouaddou to remove Mbuthuma from the starting XI.

Those calls were partly motivated by concerns for the player’s wellbeing. Criticism of Mbuthuma had escalated to threats against him and his family, while a period away from the team was viewed as a possible opportunity for him to rest and regain confidence.

Ouaddou has rejected that approach and continued to select the striker. Speaking before Orlando Pirates’ MTN8 semi-final first-leg meeting with Sekhukhune United at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday afternoon, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00, the coach explained why he believes Mbuthuma should remain in the team.

“We are here to support them. We are here as fathers and big brothers,” he said. “We mustn’t forget that they are South Africans and the young talent of the country.

“In my career as a coach, I cannot kill talent. I cannot. I need to keep believing in him.”

The Moroccan-born coach acknowledged that his support for Mbuthuma could later be questioned if he loses his position at Orlando Pirates.

“Perhaps when I am sacked, you will say ‘you should have taken him off’. But I still believe in him,” Ouaddou said.

The striker’s continued selection means Ouaddou is standing by his judgement at a time when Mbuthuma’s finishing has become a central talking point around the club.

Rather than protecting the player by leaving him out, the coach believes backing him is the best way to help him recover his confidence and rediscover his form. His comments also underline the importance he places on supporting young South African talent, even when performances are attracting criticism.

Orlando Pirates will face Sekhukhune United in the first leg of their MTN8 semi-final as Mbuthuma attempts to respond on the pitch to the scrutiny surrounding him.

Ouaddou also provided an update on new striker Sebastian Pedersen. The forward is close to making his first appearance for the club, although his debut was delayed while he worked on his match fitness and adapted to the team.