The appointment of Abdeslam Ouaddou as Orlando Pirates’ new head coach could open the door for Marumo Gallants striker Junior Zindoga to finally land a move to Soweto, according to insiders close to both camps.
Pirates officially confirmed Ouaddou’s arrival earlier this week following the departure of Jose Riveiro to Al Ahly.
Read: 'Not Convinced': Tso Questions Ouaddou’s Readiness To Lead Pirates
While much attention has been on how the Moroccan tactician will shape the team going forward, his previous links with certain players – particularly from Gallants – are now beginning to surface.
One name that continues to gather momentum is that of Zindoga, the powerful Zimbabwean forward who caught Pirates’ attention during the recent Betway Premiership campaign.
Zindoga, 26, joined Gallants in January from Eswatini’s Nsingizini Hotspurs FC and, despite scoring just once in nine outings, has impressed with his imposing physical presence, pressing ability, and hold-up play.
He stood out during Gallants’ surprise 2-0 win over Pirates earlier this year in Mangaung, a performance that reportedly left an impression on Ouaddou, who was still with Gallants at the time.
Now, with Ouaddou at the helm of the Buccaneers, sources suggest Zindoga’s chances of securing a high-profile switch have increased significantly.
“He’s a very good player and his work rate is exceptional,” a source close to Gallants told the Siya crew. “He was doing well before he picked up an unfortunate injury, but even then, several clubs were monitoring him – Pirates included. Now that they’re coached by someone who knows him well and is a big fan of his style, there’s definitely a stronger possibility. It all depends on how he performs early in the new season and whether he gets back to his best.”
Read: Abdou Snubbed PSL Offers To Join Moroccan Side
Another source added: “For now, he remains a full-time Gallants player. The club has parted ways with several players recently, and Zindoga is part of the plans moving forward. But that could change quickly if Pirates make a move.”
While no formal bid has been submitted, it’s believed that Ouaddou’s familiarity with Zindoga’s strengths could influence transfer decisions, possibly in January, as Pirates will be involved in a demanding season that includes a return to the CAF Champions League.
Pirates were contacted for comment, but no response had been received by the time of publishing.
