Orlando Pirates are expected to retain Mandla Ncikazi as part of the technical team setup for the new season, the Siya crew has been reliably informed.
Following the departure of Spanish tactician Jose Riveiro, the Buccaneers closed off the 2024/25 campaign under the guidance of Ncikazi, who stepped in as interim head coach. The Soweto giants finished the season unbeaten in four matches under his watch, registering a win and three draws.
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In the process, Pirates continued the trend of giving young talent from the club’s DStv Diski Challenge team a taste of first-team action – a development philosophy introduced and nurtured by Riveiro.
Players like Simphiwe Selepe, Cemran Dansin, and Siyabonga Dladla showed promise in the senior setup and are expected to be part of the club’s long-term plans.
While anticipation grows around the club’s official appointment of a new head coach, sources close to the situation have provided insight into Ncikazi’s role going forward.
“Coach Mandla Ncikazi has served the club well and professionally in the different roles and for that he is valued highly. Moreover, he has a contract with the club until next year and he is allowed to stay until then. Part of the plans include him continuing to serve in the technical team for next season,” said a source.
Ncikazi, 56, joined the Buccaneers in 2021 from Golden Arrows and has since played various roles, including as co-coach and assistant during different technical team regimes.
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His experience and deep understanding of the domestic game have made him a trusted figure within the Pirates technical structure.
With pre-season around the corner and a new era looming, indications are that Pirates view continuity and experience as vital components.
