Abdeslam Ouaddou Responds to Claims He Is Turning Pirates Into a Marumo Gallants Reunion

• Orlando Pirates’ latest transfer has once again highlighted the club’s links with Marumo Gallants under Abdeslam Ouaddou
• The coach has now explained why supporters should not view the recruitment strategy as his personal project
• Bheki Mabuza’s return also comes with a clear tactical reason, according to the Orlando Pirates boss

Abdeslam Ouaddou has pushed back against the idea that he is turning Orlando Pirates into a collection of his former Marumo Gallants players after Bheki Mabuza became the latest name to make the move.

Mabuza officially returned to Pirates on 9 September 2026 after the club reached an agreement with Gallants. The deal also saw Daniel Msendami and Abdoulaye Mariko move to Gallants on season-long loans.

The transfer has added to the growing number of players with Gallants connections in the Pirates squad since Ouaddou took charge. But the Moroccan coach says the recruitment process is broader than simply bringing players he knows.

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“Sometimes people think that I'm bringing all the people from Marumo Gallants over here,” Ouaddou said as reported by SABC Sport.

His response came as questions continued around Pirates’ transfer activity, with the club having made 12 signings during the current window.

Ouaddou points to Pirates' scouting department

Rather than taking sole responsibility for the arrivals, Ouaddou highlighted the behind-the-scenes work of Pirates’ recruitment team.

“People must understand that this big club has a scouting department that is responsible for bringing people in based on their identity and how we want to play the game,” he said.

“People must stop thinking that coach is bringing all of Marumo this side.”

Mabuza's move is also slightly different from a straightforward reunion. Pirates confirmed that he was previously part of their development structure before leaving the club and impressing during his spell at Gallants.

Why Mabuza fits Ouaddou’s Pirates plans

Mabuza’s return to Orlando Pirates is not simply about his previous connection with the club or his time under Ouaddou at Marumo Gallants.

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The coach believes the 23-year-old can add creativity in attacking areas, particularly when operating between the lines. His ability to make quick decisions, play the final pass, and contribute goals is seen as a potential asset for Pirates.

Ouaddou also highlighted Mabuza’s versatility with the ball. The midfielder can combine through short passing while also having the range to play longer deliveries, qualities the coach believes can complement his tactical approach.

However, one important consideration remains before Mabuza can establish himself at Pirates. Ouaddou questioned whether the midfielder can cope with the pressure that comes with playing for one of South Africa’s biggest clubs.

“We will see,” Ouaddou said when discussing that challenge.

Pirates’ latest move therefore combines a familiar face returning to his former club with a recruitment decision Ouaddou says is based on tactical fit rather than simply previous relationships.

Sihle Nduli injury update gives Pirates supporters something to watch

Briefly News previously reported that Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou had provided an update on Sihle Nduli's recovery ahead of the Buccaneers' CAF Champions League clash with La Cure Waves on Saturday, 12 September 2026.

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Nduli remains unavailable after suffering a serious ankle injury against AmaZulu, and Pirates previously said the midfielder sustained a Grade 3 ligament tear. Ouaddou did not give a definite return date but said the club hoped to have him back as soon as possible.

Source: Briefly News