Ncikazi parted ways with Orlando Amstel Arena amid reported tensions with head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, concluding a five-year period during which he took on roles as an assistant, caretaker, and co-coach. His time in Soweto concluded with a historic domestic treble last season, including Pirates’ first league championship in 14 years.

After his departure, Ncikazi rejoined Abafana Bes’thende to take over from Pitso Dladla. However, his second tenure began with a 1-0 defeat to rivals AmaZulu in the Durban Derby held at Princess Magogo Stadium on Saturday.

Looking back on his career shift, Ncikazi expressed appreciation for his time at Pirates while explaining his drive to accept the position in Durban.

“I reflected, filled with gratitude, on where I come from; I felt I had accomplished everything as a coach,” Ncikazi stated.

“I truly appreciate the great establishment – all the cherished memories. I thank the supporters for creating those moments with me. As a coach, after achieving everything, it’s time for a different challenge now.

“I thought to work with younger players, to test myself. I don’t want to retire as a coach, especially not again, dealing with the stress I felt today [on Saturday].”

Ncikazi previously managed Arrows during the 2020/21 season, leading the club to a fourth-place finish—their best ever in Premier Soccer League history—before moving to Pirates. He was also part of the technical staff as an assistant coach when Arrows set the PSL record for the largest cup final victory with their 6-0 MTN8 win in 2009.

“I saw it as an opportunity because, when Arrows offered me a chance, I knew the club had always been close to my heart,” Ncikazi remarked.

“The highest position Arrows ever achieved happened while I was there; we broke nearly all records at the club.

“Perhaps that desire was still present. Now, we face a challenge because, when I started before, I had time. Currently, time is limited; we have another match on Tuesday [against Mamelodi Sundowns away in the Carling Knockout quarter-finals].”

Ncikazi takes over a Golden Arrows side that has been struggling in front of goal, netting just three times in nine league matches while conceding five.

Addressing the issue of lack of goals, Ncikazi acknowledged that fixing this mid-season presents an immediate tactical challenge.

“We practice on specific aspects, but we also have to play games. That’s the coach’s responsibility; you must discover a solution. However, I’m particularly worried about our performance in the attacking third, about being creative in the opponent’s half,” he explained.

“Scoring too few goals is a concern. But I also noted today [Saturday], in the first half, the reasons we are positioned where we are.”