Official: Abdeslam Ouaddou takes the helm at Orlando Pirates!

The South African club Orlando Pirates has officially announced the appointment of former Moroccan international Abdeslam Ouaddou as head coach, replacing Spaniard José Riveiro, who has left to manage Al Ahly in Egypt.

In a statement published on its official website, the club welcomed the arrival of the Moroccan tactician, highlighting his vast experience in the world of football as well as his leadership qualities—key assets to guide the Buccaneers into a new era of success.

Ouaddou (46) will be supported by an experienced technical staff, including Mandla Ncikazi and Rayaan Jacobs as assistant coaches, Helmi Gueldich as fitness coach, and Tyron Damons as goalkeeping coach.

A former iconic defender of the Moroccan national team, Abdeslam Ouaddou earned 68 caps with the Atlas Lions. He also enjoyed a solid professional career in Europe, making him a strategic choice to lead Orlando Pirates' first team.

An ambitious summer preseason against European clubs

The new coach is expected to arrive in South Africa by the end of the week. He will kick off preparations for the new season with his staff starting June 27, ahead of a preseason training camp scheduled in Marbella, Spain, from July 8 to 20.

During this training camp, Orlando Pirates will play several friendly matches against renowned European sides, including Bolton Wanderers (England), Pafos FC (Cyprus), UD Las Palmas (Spain), and Granada CF (Spain).

Also read: Sinoxolo Kwayiba edges closer to Orlando Pirates!

Mohamed Rek |

Editorfr, ar, en

Mohamed Rek- sports content writer with over 10 years of experience creating football content in Arabic and French for platforms such as Foot Africa and Starafrica, combining accuracy, creativity, and audience engagement.