Despite a rocky start that fueled skepticism, Orlando Pirates head coach
Abdeslam Ouaddou has been publicly backed by former colleague Luc Eymael,
who insists the Moroccan tactician is the right man for the job and should
be judged on results.
Ouaddou’s early tenure at the Soweto giants was met with scrutiny following
back-to-back league defeats and heavy criticism of his rotation policy.
While conspiracy theories about front-office interference in team selection
have since faded amid improved performances and attractive football, doubts
have lingered.
In a candid conversation, Eymael—who coached against Ouaddou in the
Democratic Republic of Congo—did not shy away from the challenges his friend
faces but expressed firm belief in his abilities.
“Unfortunately for Pirates they are out of the CAF Champions League, but I
want to congratulate my friend Abdes, because he’s my friend,” Eymael told
the Siya Crew. “He’s a very nice guy; he can win the second trophy against
Marumo Gallants (in the Carling Knockout final). But winning the league is
more difficult than winning a trophy.”
Eymael revealed he has been in contact with Ouaddou and offered advice on
overcoming the disappointment of their continental exit. “I said to him that
the best way to (get over) that and bring comfort, is to win a trophy and to
fight until the end for the league.”
Addressing the core of the criticism, Eymael defended Ouaddou’s decision to
implement his own distinct, attacking style—a departure from the
possession-oriented approach of his predecessor, Jose Riveiro.
“He is bringing his own style; it’s the same style he was playing with Vita
Club. He is doing well, yes, he’s rotating the team, people can discuss why
he is not taking (Tshegofatso) Mabasa, (Evidence) Makgopa, this one and that
one. But at the end of the day, you judge the coach on the results,” Eymael
stated.
The Belgian coach concluded by affirming that Ouaddou’s offensive philosophy
is a core part of his identity, not a reaction to pressure. “I’m not
surprised (with his style of play). I know how he likes to play. He doesn’t
like counterattacks. He is not that type of a coach, he likes to play
offensive soccer.”
