New territory. Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has admitted that managing a squad of 38 players is unlike anything he has dealt with before.
The Buccaneers, who face Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 semifinals on Saturday, have one of the biggest rosters in the Betway Premiership this season after a busy transfer window that brought in names like Oswin Appollis and Sipho Mbule.
With fierce competition in every position, Ouaddou says the challenge is keeping every player involved.
ORLANDO PIRATES COACH ADBESLAM OUADDOU ON HIS MASSIVE SQUAD
Kaizer Chiefs starting 11: How Velebayi fits in
“In my previous clubs I worked with 25 or 28 players,” Ouaddou told the media. “Here it’s 38, so it’s a big number. We have to plan training carefully so everyone stays motivated and ready.
Orlando Pirates star offered love in football
“It’s a good problem to have, but still a problem you must manage well,” he said.
In the meantime, Ouaddou is facing the worst pressure in his coaching career. While Orlando Pirates kicked off the season with a 2-0 win over Polokwane City in the MTN8, the Sea Robbers started the Betway Premiership with two defeats to Sekhukhune United and Marumo Gallants.
Coach Ouaddou is expected to respond against Sundowns in the MTN8 first-leg semifinal.
WILL ABDESLAM OUADDOU TURN THINGS AROUND?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.