Zamalek target Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou after historic treble-winning season

Egyptian giants Zamalek SC have reportedly identified Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou as their preferred candidate to take charge of the club, following the French-Moroccan tactician’s remarkable debut campaign in South African football.

According to reports, the White Knights have already made an approach for Ouaddou, but their initial offer has reportedly been rejected by the Orlando Pirates hierarchy, who remain determined to keep hold of one of Africa’s most sought-after coaches.

Ouaddou is currently with the Buccaneers in Spain, where the club is conducting its pre-season training camp ahead of the 2026/27 campaign. The former defender has been overseeing preparations as Pirates look to build on an extraordinary first season under his leadership.

The 47-year-old enjoyed a dream start to life at Orlando Pirates after guiding the Soweto giants to an impressive domestic treble. In his maiden campaign at the helm, Ouaddou led the Sea Robbers to glory in the MTN8, Carling Knockout Cup and the Betway Premiership, cementing his reputation as one of the continent’s fastest-rising coaches.

Those achievements have significantly enhanced his standing across African football and are believed to have attracted the attention of Zamalek, who are eager to appoint a proven winner capable of restoring the club to the summit of Egyptian football.

The Cairo-based outfit have been searching for a new manager as they prepare for the upcoming season and initially turned their attention to South African-born coach Fadlu Davids. However, reports now suggest the club has shifted its focus to Ouaddou, viewing the Pirates boss as the ideal man to lead their next project.

His tactical discipline, ability to build a winning mentality and success in delivering silverware in South Africa have reportedly convinced Zamalek’s decision-makers that he possesses the qualities required to thrive in the highly demanding Egyptian Premier League.

Despite the growing interest, Orlando Pirates appear reluctant to sanction the departure of their head coach. The club regards Ouaddou as a central figure in its long-term ambitions after a campaign that exceeded expectations and restored the Buccaneers to the top of South African football.

The reported rejection of Zamalek’s opening approach underlines Pirates’ determination to maintain stability on the technical bench as they prepare to defend their domestic titles while also challenging on the continental stage.

The latest developments come after a turbulent beginning to Ouaddou’s tenure. Reports indicated that the coach had come close to resigning early in the previous campaign amid internal challenges before eventually remaining in charge. That decision proved pivotal, as he went on to oversee one of the most successful seasons in the club’s recent history.

With Orlando Pirates now focused on their pre-season preparations in Spain, speculation over Ouaddou’s future is likely to continue. Whether Zamalek return with an improved offer or Pirates succeed in keeping their highly rated coach remains one of the major managerial stories to watch during the current transfer window.

For now, Ouaddou’s immediate priority remains preparing Orlando Pirates for another demanding campaign, while the club’s hierarchy will hope their faith in the treble-winning manager is rewarded with continued success on both the domestic and continental fronts.