Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has dismissed media reports of a rift between himself and assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi. Speaking ahead of the club’s Champions League qualifier, the Moroccan said the environment at the club remains positive and urged people not to invent problems.

“We read many things about that, everything is okay in the club, the environment is okay, so people must not start to create any problem,” Ouaddou told reporters. He added that Ncikazi had undergone surgery and was recovering. “I wish him all the best, and that’s all I can say.” The coach also pointed to a recent moment of affection between the two as proof that the stories were unfounded.

Hours after those comments, Orlando Pirates confirmed that Ncikazi will leave the club. In an official statement, the Buccaneers said the assistant coach is departing to take up a head coaching role at another Premier Soccer League team. The move followed discussions with management on Thursday morning, during which Ncikazi expressed his wish to lead a team again. The club said it has given him its blessing.

Club chairman Dr Irvin Khoza thanked Ncikazi for his service. “Mandla leaves with our gratitude and our blessing. 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,” Khoza said.

Ncikazi joined Pirates in 2021 and spent five years as part of the technical team. He served mainly as assistant coach under José Riveiro and later Ouaddou, with a brief spell as co-coach in 2025. During that time he was part of a successful period that brought the club nine trophies.

The timing of the announcement comes just before Pirates host Namibian side African Stars in the second leg of their Champions League qualifier at Orlando Stadium on Friday night. The Buccaneers hold a 1-0 lead from the first leg and will be looking to progress to the group stage. Ouaddou said preparations have gone well and the players are focused on the task ahead.

Source: https://x.com/iDiskiTimes/status/2113243352338493747