Orlando Pirates chairman Dr Irvin Khoza has sent a warm farewell message to Mandla Ncikazi after the coach left his job as assistant at the club.

Ncikazi has decided to move on and take up a head coaching post at another team in the Premier Soccer League. Pirates confirmed the news on Thursday after talks with the coach earlier in the day. Ncikazi told club bosses he wanted the chance to lead a side again, and the Buccaneers gave him their full support.

Dr Khoza spoke highly of the coach’s time at the club. “Mandla leaves with our gratitude and our blessing,” the chairman said. “His contribution to Orlando Pirates has been evident throughout his time with us. We respect his wish to pursue this new opportunity and wish him success as he takes on a new responsibility.”

Ncikazi joined Orlando Pirates in June 2021. He first worked as co-coach with Fadlu Davids and later served as assistant under José Riveiro and then Abdeslam Ouaddou. During his five years with the technical team he helped the club win nine trophies. These include four MTN8 titles in a row, two Nedbank Cups, the Carling Knockout, the Carling Black Label Cup and the Betway Premiership.

Many fans have praised Ncikazi for his hard work and loyalty. He stayed with the team through good times and tough periods and always represented the black and white with pride.

The club said Ncikazi leaves with the respect of everyone at Orlando Pirates. While the exact new club has not been officially named by the Buccaneers, reports link him strongly with a return to Golden Arrows, where he worked before joining Pirates.

Pirates now look ahead under head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou as they continue their season. For Ncikazi, this move offers a fresh start and the chance to take full charge of a team once more.

Dr Khoza’s kind words show the club values the role Ncikazi played. The message of gratitude and blessing marks a respectful end to his chapter at the Sea Robbers. Fans and players will remember his contribution as the club moves forward.

Source: https://x.com/iDiskiTimes/status/2113300803008024631