Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has rapidly stamped his
authority on the club, guiding them to the MTN8 and Carling Knockout
titles within three months and inspiring a historic surge to the top of
the DStv Premiership table by Christmas—a feat last achieved in 2004.
After a challenging start with back-to-back defeats, the Moroccan
tactician has not only steadied the ship but elevated it, earning
recognition for creating an environment where players thrive. A key
indicator of his impact is the contribution of nine Pirates players to the
current Bafana Bafana squad at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Beyond the silverware and national team call-ups, Ouaddou’s true success
lies in his player development. He has unlocked the potential of figures
like Sipho Mbule and Oswin Appollis, while integrating breakout talents
such as Masindi Nemtajela and Cemran Dansin from the reserves. He has also
installed young defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi as a first-choice starter and
captain.
According to a source with deep knowledge of Moroccan football, this
transformative effect stems from a distinct coaching philosophy.
“What is good about Moroccan coaches is that they see players differently
than us. When you see a player as not good enough, they make use of that
player and make him shine,” the source revealed. “They are very good with
player-management… Ouaddou can take a player from the reserves, give him
confidence.”
Central to this approach is a rejection of the “star player” culture.
“They don’t have star players. They don’t believe that a particular player
is exceptional,” the source explained. “Ouaddou does not get excited by
what we say about Sipho Mbule, for example. He takes him as a normal team
member who has to play his part, and when he’s done, make way for others.”
This philosophy is evident beyond Pirates. The source highlighted the
resurgence of former Bucs star Thembinkosi Lorch under Moroccan coach
Mohamed Amine Benhachem at Wydad Casablanca. “Lorch there is fighting for
his position, that’s why he’s improving. That side, they play you when you
deserve to play, not because you’re a superstar.”
In essence, Ouaddou has instilled a meritocratic system where every player
is equally important and must earn their place—a defining trait he shares
with the ethos of the Moroccan national team. It is this culture of
collective responsibility and individual accountability that is driving
Orlando Pirates’ current success.
