The Orlando Pirates confirmation ends what was a week of speculation regarding Ncikazi’s future.
“Orlando Pirates Football Club confirms that Assistant Coach Mandla Ncikazi will be leaving the Club to take up the Head Coach position at a team in the Premier Soccer League,” the club said.
MANDLA NCIKAZI LEAVES ORLANDO PIRATES
The Soweto giants’ call comes after Ncikazi met with the top brass on Thursday. During the meeting, he made it clear that he wanted to pursue an opportunity to lead a team again.
Bucs have given the experienced coach their blessing to take the next step in his career.
Ncikazi began his journey in black as a co-coach alongside Fadlu Davids. He later served as an assistant to Jose Riveiro and later Abdeslam Ouaddou.
Orlando Pirates chairman Dr Irvin Khoza thanked Ncikazi for his contribution and backed his decision to pursue a new challenge.
“Mandla leaves with our gratitude and our blessing. His contribution to Orlando Pirates has been evident throughout his time with us,” Khoza said.
“We respect his wish to pursue this new opportunity and wish him success as he takes on a new responsibility,” he added.
Ncikazi’s departure marks the end of a trophy-laden spell at the Soweto giants, with the coach now looking to return to a leading role in the dugout.
Meanwhile, reports suggest that Ncikazi could be rejoining Golden Arrows. He played his professional career at African Wanderers before AmaZulu and later Maritzbirg United where he ended up coaching after retirement.
For now, Orlando Pirates remain focused on facing Namibia’s African Stars in the CAF Champions League. Coach Ouaddou will be assisted by Rayaan Jacobs. It remains to be seen who will replace Ncikazi.
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