The Orlando Pirates confirmation ends what was a week of speculation regarding Ncikazi’s future.

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

MANDLA NCIKAZI LEAVES ORLANDO PIRATES

The decision follows discussions with the club’s management on Thursday morning, during which Ncikazi made it clear that he wanted to pursue an opportunity to lead a team again. Pirates have given the experienced coach their blessing to take the next step in his career.

Ncikazi leaves the Buccaneers with nine trophies won during his time on the club’s technical team. He served predominantly as assistant coach, including a brief spell as co-coach in 2025.

Pirates chairman Dr Irvin Khoza thanked Ncikazi for his contribution and backed his decision to pursue a new challenge.

“Mandla leaves with our gratitude and our blessing. His contribution to Orlando Pirates has been evident throughout his time with us,” Khoza said.

“We respect his wish to pursue this new opportunity and wish him success as he takes on a new responsibility,” he added.

Ncikazi’s departure marks the end of a trophy-laden spell at the Soweto giants, with the coach now looking to return to a leading role in the dugout.

The coach is also expected to acknowledge those he worked alongside during his time at Pirates as he begins the next chapter of his coaching career.

Meanwhile, Ncikazi is rumoured to be on his way to Golden Arrows.