Orlando Pirates interim coach Mandla Ncikazi has laid out how the club must strategically handle its burgeoning young talent as they’re increasingly promoting academy youngsters to the first team.
Pirates continued their strong push for academy integration this season, introducing several promising young players such as Mohau Nkota, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Siyabonga Dladla, Simphiwe Selepe, and Yanga Madiba, among others, to the senior squad.
These new additions are now part of a growing youth contingent that includes established talents like Relebohile Mofokeng, Thabiso Sesane, and Boitumelo Radiopane, showcasing the club’s future direction.
Ncikazi was asked if the team should lessen their reliance on young players which many people believed was one of the factors behind their downfall, leading to their failure to win the Betway Premiership and CAF Champions League.
He admitted that easing the burden on young players could be the most effective strategy moving forward, yet lauded their current direction, asserting its benefit to the entire nation.
NCIKAZI THINKS PIRATES’ ‘YOUNG TALENT’ DIRECTION WILL BENEFIT SOUTH AFRICA
“Number of games [they play should be lessened] maybe, but in terms of the experience, I don’t think so,” said Ncikazi.
“If you play Nkota in Egypt, you play a Selepe, giving him a start in the most difficult game. For me, I see the positive side that there’s a lot of experience gained.
“The team is growing, maybe the direction that our team is taking and how they do things, I think, is the right one for the growth of football, not only in our team but in the country.
“I think it’s massive in our club to be bold and allow this process to happen. And maybe other teams should follow where we do that.
“If you see a Nkota three months ago, Rele, Mbokazi, for me, it’s a very bold decision from our club. I don’t see anything wrong.
“I trust our team in terms of the decision-making, it’s a process that is long. I’m sure there is a plan for what is going to happen next season.
“We never expected what was going to happen this past season, but we’re still proud of the decisions taken. For us, it’s just to follow the mission and try to fulfil all the goals and make the Buccaneers happy.”
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