Former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Roger Feutmba has commented on the
challenges faced by several PSL coaches, including Orlando Pirates’ Abdeslam
Ouaddou, while praising their collective effort.
In an exclusive interview, the Cameroonian legend noted that Ouaddou, who is
overseeing a strong run of form for Pirates, is still in an adjustment
phase.
“The only thing I will say is that they are trying their best,” Feutmba
stated. “Especially the coach from Orlando Pirates. He still has to find his
mark. He doesn’t really know the culture of South African football or the
mentality of the players yet. He needed to adapt to a new environment and
understand the personnel to get better results.”
Feutmba contrasted Ouaddou’s situation with that of Mamelodi Sundowns’ coach
Miguel Cardoso, who has had more time to settle. “Cardoso has been here for
two good seasons. He’s supposed to know the environment and the culture of
the players much better. Sundowns is a team used to winning and dominating,
which isn’t quite what we see now. But football is like that sometimes—this
season is tougher with many new players integrating. The pressure is
mounting.”
He observed positive signs from the Pirates coach, however. “He started very
bad, but he’s catching up, he’s adapting. He understands the culture of
football in South Africa more now. He’s getting there.”
Regarding Marumo Gallants’ coach Alexandre Lafitte, Feutmba stressed the
importance of context. “The Marumo Gallants manager’s role is not easy. The
quality of the personnel you have is very important. We don’t have to judge
people; we have to make the right analysis. I believe all these coaches have
a mandate, and if they don’t fulfill it, the club management will decide
what to do next.”
Feutmba concluded by reiterating his belief that all three coaches are doing
their utmost under differing circumstances.
