Former Orlando Pirates coach Augusto Palacios has weighed in on the club’s new project, insisting that continuity, not a complete overhaul, is the key to future success.
The Buccaneers parted ways with one of their most successful coaches, Jose Riveiro, at the end of the 2024/25 season. His successor, Moroccan tactician Abdeslam Ouaddou, was announced just before the team departed for their preseason camp in Spain.
Along with a new head coach, the Soweto giants welcomed more than 10 new signings. The team, which has finished as runners-up in the Betway Premiership for three consecutive seasons under Riveiro, acquired a mix of experienced figures and exciting young talent in what was widely considered another successful transfer window.
Top recruits included former Polokwane City FC winger Oswin Appollis, Sihle Nduli, and Sipho Mbulu. These additions have not only impressed Palacios but have also assured him that the squad now possesses the depth needed to compete for major trophies.
Despite releasing over 10 players, the influx of new recruits means Pirates’ squad remains at over 40 players. This “good headache” for Ouaddou has been a luxury he’s quickly capitalised on, immediately integrating a number of new signings into his starting lineup during the first few games.
However, the MTN8 champions faced a slow start to the season, winning just one of their first four matches across all competitions. Their early struggles included two league defeats and a 1-1 home draw against Mamelodi Sundowns in the first leg of their MTN8 semi-final.
A ‘WELL-OILED MACHINE’: PALACIOS ADVISES AGAINST DRASTIC CHANGES AT PIRATES
Pirates have since found their stride, however, showing a remarkable turnaround just before the recent FIFA international break. The team secured three consecutive league victories and, more importantly, booked their spot in the MTN8 final. They are set to face Stellenbosch FC in Mbombela on Saturday, September 13th, for a chance to defend their title.
But the coach’s swift and dramatic changes have drawn criticism from some pundits who question his decisions so early in the season. And while Pirates have started winning games, their victories have been unconvincing.
The former Pirates coach has opposed the idea of too many changes, maintaining that coach Riveiro left behind a “well-oiled machine.”
“The team was already built [by Riveiro] and it needs continuity and consistency,” Palacios stated in an interview with FARPost. “The majority of the players have remained. Remember, Jose was three years in the team and every year he tried his best in the MTN and league.”
Having twice served as caretaker coach, managing a total of 28 games, the 73-year-old shows a clear understanding of the Pirates ‘ current state. Despite stressing the importance of continuity, he remains confident that the current squad has what it takes to turn their season around.
“We cannot compare coaches, but they need continuity,” he added. “Sometimes you can start the league with poor results, but gradually they can arrive at a high level because they have the players.”
RELATED STORY: How Pirates star helped Sundowns new signing launch his career