AmaZulu FC head coach Arthur Zwane has heaped praise on Orlando Pirates for the strides the Soweto giants have made in building a strong identity, both under previous head coach Jose Riveiro and now with the newly appointed Abdeslam Ouaddou at the helm.
Speaking during the launch of the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season this week, Zwane took a moment to applaud Pirates’ approach, particularly their successful integration of players from the club’s DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) side into the senior team.
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“Last season, I was impressed with what Orlando Pirates did, as a bunch of their players came from the Diski Challenge, and they were competing,” Zwane told journalists.
The former Kaizer Chiefs coach highlighted the importance of continuity and long-term planning within club structures, citing Pirates as a shining example of how youth development, coaching vision, and club identity can align to build success.
“So, trust me, it’s still going to be tough to compete against this Pirates team, because they are building an identity. The new coach has come in and is already doing well because he has continued where Jose left off. So, that’s how the game should be,” Zwane said.
Ouaddou was unveiled as the new head coach of the Buccaneers following Riveiro’s departure during the off-season.
Despite the recent changes, Zwane believes the foundation laid by the Spaniard has been carried forward seamlessly.
“There should be continuity. It’s what we are trying to build at AmaZulu as well,” added Zwane, who will be embarking on his first full season in charge of Usuthu.
The 51-year-old tactician stressed that creating systems and structures beyond the coach’s personality is crucial for sustainable success – a model he is now aiming to replicate in Durban.
“That’ll help so that even if I am not around – because as coaches we don’t stay too long for many reasons – whoever comes in competes and is able to produce and sell players,” Zwane explained.
Zwane’s comments come at a time when AmaZulu themselves are undergoing a bit of a transition, with a blend of experienced campaigners and young talent forming part of their squad for the new campaign.
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The club has also shown intent in strengthening its technical team and player development pathways behind the scenes.
While Pirates have emerged as early favourites alongside Mamelodi Sundowns and Stellenbosch FC, Zwane insists AmaZulu are working tirelessly to forge their own blueprint – one that ensures sustainability, competitiveness, and youth-driven progression.
Photo by Gerhard Duraan/BackpagePix
