With Orlando Pirates officially confirming the appointment of Abdeslam Ouaddou as their new head coach, former Marumo Gallants defender Vusi Sibiya has offered insight into what the Buccaneers can expect from the Moroccan tactician.
Sibiya, who played under Ouaddou during their time together at Gallants, believes the Pirates squad should prepare themselves for a coach who values discipline, work ethic, and fairness above all.
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“Coach Abdee is a good coach,” Sibiya told the Siya crew. “All I can say to Pirates is that he demands hard work from his players. As long as you put in the effort, you’ll get a chance to play in his team. He doesn’t show favouritism, and he selects players purely on merit.”
According to Sibiya, Ouaddou’s team selections are performance-based, and not influenced by status, age, or reputation.
“If you perform in training, you will play. It’s as simple as that, regardless of your age – whether you’re a youngster or an experienced player, performance is what earns you a spot,” he explained.
Sibiya also described Ouaddou as a man of strong principles who creates a no-nonsense working environment.
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“He’s a man of principles who values a high work rate, and when it’s time to work, there’s no room for messing around. With that coach, if you’re not giving your best, you’re only hurting yourself, because you won’t play.”
The 46-year-old Ouaddou was unveiled by Pirates on Monday, following the departure of Jose Riveiro, who has since joined Egyptian giants Al Ahly.
