PIRATES BOMBSHELL! Former Buccaneer Questions Ncikazi’s Absence as Ouaddou Rift Speculation Grows

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA | 22 OCTOBER 2026

Orlando Pirates have been plunged into fresh uncertainty following renewed speculation surrounding assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi, whose absence from the technical bench has raised questions about his future at the Soweto giants.

A former Pirates star believes there could be more to the situation than initially meets the eye, adding another layer of intrigue to a developing story involving head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou and one of the club’s longest-serving technical team members. <Cite refs={["turn741572news3","turn741572search0"]}/>

Ncikazi has been absent from several Pirates matches this season after undergoing knee surgery during pre-season. The club previously explained that he was experiencing discomfort following the procedure and needed time away from his duties to continue his recovery in KwaZulu-Natal.

However, reports published this week have suggested that his continued absence could also be linked to alleged tension within the coaching setup. These claims have not been officially confirmed by Orlando Pirates, and the precise circumstances surrounding the situation remain unclear. <Cite refs={["turn741572search0","turn741572search4"]}/>

Former Pirates Star Raises Questions

The latest developments have intensified speculation about whether Ncikazi will continue working alongside Ouaddou or eventually leave the club.

Former Buccaneers winger Mpho Mbuyane is the former player at the centre of the latest discussion, with his comments reflecting growing uncertainty over the situation. The phrase “where there's smoke, there's fire” has been used in coverage of his views on the possibility of a fallout between the two coaches. <Cite refs={["turn741572news3"]}/>

Nevertheless, speculation should not be mistaken for confirmation of a breakdown in the relationship. Neither an official departure announcement nor a definitive public explanation of the reported disagreement has been established in the available reports.

Ncikazi has played an important role at Pirates since joining the club's technical setup in 2021. His experience in South African football has helped provide continuity through different coaching regimes, including the periods under Jose Riveiro and the current leadership of Ouaddou. <Cite refs={["turn741572search0","turn741572search7"]}/>

The assistant coach has also been linked with a possible return to Golden Arrows, where he previously enjoyed success as head coach. Reports have identified him as a potential candidate should the Durban-based club decide to make a change in its technical department. However, Golden Arrows have played down the speculation, saying Pitso Dladla remains in charge. <Cite refs={["turn741572search1","turn741572search2"]}/>

Pirates Face Important Fixtures

The uncertainty comes at a crucial stage of the campaign, with Pirates competing across domestic and continental competitions.

Ouaddou has continued to lead the team with support from other members of his technical staff while questions about Ncikazi's position persist.

For now, Pirates supporters will be waiting for clarity on whether the experienced coach will return to the bench or pursue another opportunity.

Until the club or the individuals involved provide an authoritative update, the reported rift remains an allegation rather than an established fact. Ncikazi's next move could nevertheless become one of the most closely watched developments around the Buccaneers.

Source https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2113229139087921445