Sportswire previously reported that Ncikazi and head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou experienced a setback in their professional relationship, with the Moroccan manager indicating to the administration that he would resign if the tensions among the technical staff were not addressed.

During a press briefing on Thursday, prior to Pirates’ CAF Champions League second preliminary round second-leg match against African Stars, Ouaddou downplayed the rumors of discord, stating that Ncikazi’s absence was due to recovery from ankle surgery.

Ncikazi had not been present on the Buccaneers’ technical bench in recent games, notably appearing in casual attire in the VIP sections during the MTN8 final win over Mamelodi Sundowns at Moses Mabhida Stadium earlier this month.

Despite Ouaddou’s comments before the match, Pirates released an official statement on Thursday confirming Ncikazi’s departure.

“Orlando Pirates Football Club confirms that Assistant Coach Mandla Ncikazi will be leaving the Club to take up the Head Coach position at a Premier Soccer League team,” stated the club in a release.

Sportswire reports that Ncikazi is strongly favored to return to Golden Arrows, the Durban-based club he left before the start of the 2021/22 season.

“This decision follows a meeting with management this morning in which Mr. Ncikazi expressed his desire to lead a team again. The Club has granted him its full support,” the statement added.

“Mr. Ncikazi departs with nine trophies achieved as part of the Pirates technical team, where he primarily served as Assistant Coach, including a brief period as co-coach in 2025. Throughout this time, he upheld the Club’s values with great honor.”

Pirates Chairman Dr. Irvin Khoza commended Ncikazi for his contributions and recognized his ambition to return to a top-flight head coaching position.

“This move comes after discussions with management, where Mr. Ncikazi reiterated his wish to pursue leadership of a team once more. The Club has granted him its blessing in this endeavor.

“Mr. Ncikazi departs with nine trophies accumulated during his tenure with the Pirates technical team, predominantly serving as Assistant Coach, marking a brief spell as co-coach in 2025.”

“Through his time with us, he has represented the Club with distinction.”

“Mandla leaves with our gratitude and best wishes. His input has been invaluable to Orlando Pirates. We respect his desire to explore this new opportunity and wish him success as he embraces this new role,” Khoza concluded.

The club further shared, “For Ncikazi, this departure offers the chance to express his appreciation for those he has worked alongside during his time at Pirates.”