Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye is not convinced about the new Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.
Former Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Rulani Mokwena was the hot favourite for the Bucs job; however, the Soweto giants announced Moroccan coach Abdeslam Ouaddou as Jose Riveiro’s successor.
With Pirates set to jet off to Spain in the next few weeks, Khanye said hiring Ouaddou as head coach was a mistake. The former Chiefs player argued that Pitso Mosimane and Mokwena were better options.
“I observed him at Marumo Gallants last season, and he did well, but I believe Rulani Mokwena and Pitso Mosimane could have made a better choice,” Khanye told KickOff.
“Yes, the new coach had success at Marumo Gallants, but Pirates is a massive brand. I’m not convinced he is the ideal replacement for Jose Riveiro, who secured several titles with the club during his tenure, particularly with younger players.”
Khanye feels Pitso and Rulani were more suited for the Pirates job
The former winger feels the Moroccan coach is the best fit for Marumo Gallants.
“Will he elevate Pirates from the position where Jose Riveiro left them? I think he was the right coach for Marumo Gallants. Rulani and Pitso could have effectively complemented the type of players Pirates have.
“However, it appears that Pirates wanted a coach who would allow the management to have a significant influence on team decisions,” Khanye added.
“Abdeslam Ouaddou should have stayed at least another season at Gallants and aimed to win a trophy there. I have my doubts; his appointment surprised me. I’m puzzled by it. I think he was chosen because he is willing to work under Pirates’ conditions.”
Will the new Pirates coach succeed?
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.
