Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has opened up about his decision to stick with the existing technical staff at the club, despite having a trusted group of professionals he has worked with in the past.
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In an exclusive sit-down with Pirates’ media department before their pre-season camp in Spain, the Moroccan tactician addressed the question many have been asking: why did he arrive at the Buccaneers alone?
“A lot of people are asking why I came alone. Of course I have a staff of 5-6 people that I work with. But I came to Marumo alone and I came here alone and I will explain why,” Ouaddou said candidly.
The coach highlighted his strong belief in African expertise, saying he wants to send a message of confidence in local talent rather than importing a full backroom team.
“I believe deeply in African competencies and abilities. In South Africa we have competencies from big universities, people who have badges here. If I bring these people, which sign will I give? It will be saying that Africans are not competent,” he continued.
Ouaddou insisted that the country has highly capable football professionals, and it’s time to trust and invest in them.
“I can promise you that if we take time to profile the competencies, we can see that we do have competent people. We need to believe in them.”
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Apart from Carlos Paz, who departed with former coach Jose Riveiro to Al Ahly, the bulk of the Buccaneers’ technical team remains in place – a move that could ensure stability during the transition to Ouaddou's tenure.
