Former Orlando Pirates midfielder Lebogang Mothibantwa has shared his thoughts on the appointment of Abdeslam Ouaddou as the Soweto giants’ new head coach.
Ouaddou, formerly with Marumo Gallants, was announced as the new head coach of the Buccaneers on Monday. He takes over from Jose Riveiro, who has moved on to join Egyptian giants Al Ahly.
The 46-year-old Moroccan will be assisted by Mandla Ncikazi and Rayaan Jacobs, while Tyron Damons will remain goalkeeper coach and Helmy Gueldich as strengthening and conditioning coach.
“It’s a surprise for me because at the end of the day, I didn’t expect it,” Mothibantwa told FARPost. “But the team knows how to identify a coach. They know what we are looking for in a team and why we went for him.”
FORMER ORLANDO PIRATES MIDFIELDER SHARES HIS ENCOUNTER WITH THE NEW COACH
Mothibantwa also revealed details about his first encounter with coach Ouaddou during the latter’s time at Betway Premiership side Marumo Gallants.
“When I did my CAF B license in Bloemfontein, there was this time whereby he came and did a presentation in terms of how he does his things,” added Mothibantwa.
Having witnessed Ouaddou’s coaching firsthand, Mothibantwa also acknowledges his capabilities while also highlighting the immense pressure that awaits him at the Soweto giants.
“I saw his training sessions, and he is not a bad coach. He is actually a good coach, but I think the expectations from the Pirates fans, because of what Jose Riveiro achieved, it’s going to be too much. He is a young coach. So we will see how it goes.”
Ouaddou is expected to arrive in South Africa towards the end of the week. He will start with pre-season preparations on Friday, 27 June.
The Buccaneers are expected to embark on their third consecutive international pre-season tour to Spain from 8 to 20 July.
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