Gabadinho Mhango: Former Orlando Pirates Star Explains What Makes Abdeslam Ouaddou Special

• A former Orlando Pirates player has explained what makes the Buccaneers' head coach, Abdeslam Ouaddou, special
• The French-born Moroccan coach has enjoyed success with the Soweto-based club since being named their head coach
• The ex-Morocco international has won three domestic titles for the Premier Soccer League giants this campaign

Former Orlando Pirates forward Gabadinho Mhango, now on the books of Richards Bay FC, has shared fresh insight into the personality and working style of Abdeslam Ouaddou.

The 33-year-old Malawian international, who previously played under the French-Moroccan coach during their time together at Marumo Gallants, spoke about the qualities that make the mentor stand out, highlighting his natural charisma and deep-rooted love for the sport.

Ouaddou left Gallants at the end of the 2024-25 season and joined the Sea Robbers as a replacement for Jose Riveiro, who initially moved to Al Ahly in 2025.

Ouaddou's start to life at Pirates

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Since taking charge in Soweto, Ouaddou has wasted little time making his mark, guiding Orlando Pirates to two major trophies within the opening months of the campaign.

Although his tenure began with mixed performances that sparked early doubt, the Buccaneers have since surged up the Betway Premiership standings.

In the CAF Champions League, the Moroccan coach was unable to lead the Soweto giants to the group phase of the competition after losing to Saint Eloi Lupopo in the preliminary stage.

He's on course to win all domestic titles for the Sea Robbers this season, with the Betway Premiership and Nedbank Cup left to be won.

Mhango shares what makes Ouaddou special

Reflecting on their time together, Mhango says what struck him most was Ouaddou’s genuine bond with football and the energy he brings to his work.

“Abdeslam is someone who truly lives for football,” Mhango told KickOff. “He understands the game inside out because he has played it. You can see that love in the intensity and commitment his teams show on the training ground.”

According to the former Marumo Gallants forward, those training sessions showcased the coach’s mindset well before the results started to follow.

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“When we were at Marumo Gallants, I could already tell at training that this was someone who really enjoyed being there. Just by looking at him, you could see how much he values the game and the moment,” he explained.

Mhango believes that same enthusiasm is now bearing fruit at one of South Africa’s biggest clubs. With Orlando Pirates currently leading the Betway Premiership and holding a match in hand over second-placed Mamelodi Sundowns, confidence within the squad continues to grow.

He also feels the championship battle will ultimately be decided by desire and work ethic—traits he says are embodied in Ouaddou’s philosophy.

“When it comes to the title race, it will go to the team that wants it more and is willing to put in the work. At Orlando Pirates, the objective this season is clear: to win the league,” Mhango concluded.

PSL star reacts after joining Pirates

Briefly News also reported that a PSL star has broken his silence after joining Orlando Pirates from another South African side in the January transfer window.

The versatile player also acknowleged the Soweto giants supporters in his comments as a new Pirates player.

Source: Briefly News