Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has praised the club’s scouting department for unearthing promising midfielder Matome Mmolai.
The Buccaneers signed Mmolai during the current transfer window as part of a strategic squad overhaul ahead of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season.
Pirates have brought in eight new signings as they prepare to defend their league title, compete in domestic cup competitions, and make a strong push in the CAF Champions League.
The Soweto giants have bolstered their ranks with the additions of Mmolai, Neo Rapoo, Mthetheleli Mthiyane, Sbangani Zulu, Bohlale Ngwato, Gamphani Lungu, Thapelo Mokobodi, and Norwegian forward Sebastian Pedersen.
All the newcomers, excluding Thapelo Mokobodi, were included in the club’s pre-season training camp in Spain, where Ouaddou put the squad through their paces ahead of the highly anticipated campaign.
After evaluating his recruits in Spain, Ouaddou singled out Mmolai for praise, highlighting how quickly the talented midfielder has adjusted to life at the club. The 23-year-old joined Pirates from Motsepe Foundation Championship side Leicesterford City FC after delivering an impressive second half of last season.
ABDESLAM OUADDOU RAVES ABOUT MMOLAI
Mmolai spent the beginning of last season with TS Galaxy, though he was unable to be registered due to a transfer clearance dispute with Leicesterford, who had purchased the status of his former club, JDR Stars.
“The club does a great job when scouting players,” Ouaddou said. “The type of players they bring in terms of human values is very important because if you want to work with a player, a strong foundation of values is essential.
“On the pitch, I think the new players bring us real freshness. To take one example, Matome brings us that energy from the lower division. It feels like he’s already been playing for us for a long time.
“The new players are integrating well, but for some, we must remain patient. We shouldn’t rush them, but rather develop them step by step because the club has a clear vision for their future, and it’s up to us to build them.”
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