Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has opened up about the signing of Bheki Mabuza, outlining the qualities the midfielder brings to the Soweto giants.
Mabuza signed for Pirates from Marumo Gallants last week as the club continues to strengthen its squad in the current transfer window.
The 24-year-old put pen to paper with Pirates after impressing at Bahlabane Ba Ntwa with his technical ability. Mabuza made 35 appearances across all competitions, scoring three goals and providing one assist.
Mabuza is one of the many players to have signed for Pirates in the current transfer window as they look to navigate all domestic trophies while chasing the CAF Champions League title.
The Buccaneers have already signed players such as Mthetheleli Mthiyane, Sbangani Zulu, Bohlale Ngwato, Neo Rapoo, Matome Mmolai, Ghampani Lungu, Thapelo Mokobodi, Sebastian Pedersen, and Mohau Nkota, who is on loan from Saudi Arabia Pro League side Al-Ettifaq Club.
OUADDOU BREAKS DOWN MABUZA’S QUALITIES
Reflecting on the signing of Mabuza, Ouaddou said the attacking midfielder can help Pirates with his eye for a pass in the final third.
“It’s good that you ask me this question about Mabuza because sometimes people think I’m bringing everyone from Marumo here,” Ouaddou said.
“But you know that what is important is people must understand that this is one of the biggest clubs in Africa, with a scouting department that brings people based on their identity and how we want to play in the club.
“I’m not the one who brings people here, so people must stop thinking that the coach is bringing all the Marumo Gallants people here, but speaking about Mabuza, I think he’s a good profile.
“He can help us in the heart of the game with quick decision-making with his last pass, the activity that he can have in the heart of the game and get assists. He’s able to score as well.
“So he’s a player that we have seen; he’s able to play short between the lines, and he is able to combine and play long. Hopefully, he can fit in our system, and now the question mark is the dimension of the club.
“Sometimes the pressure you can have in this big club is the factor that we cannot manage, and I hope that he quickly fits in and manages this high expectation that we have.”
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