Abdeslam Ouaddou gives Makhehleni Makhaula update

By Mazola Molefe
23rd October 2025

Orlando Pirates coach has said midfielder Makhehleni Makhaula, who is currently on the mend, remains a key member of the squad this season.

The 35-year-old suffered a long-term injury during the Nedbank Cup final between The Buccaneers and bitter rivals Kaizer Chiefs five months ago.

He is yet to make an appearance in the Ouaddou era, however, the coach is adamant Makhaula has a major role to play in the team.

"Makhaula is in a good way. He came back, but sometimes when you come back after such a long-term injury, you can still feel pain.

"So we don't want to take the risk and end up losing him for a long time. He is recovering again, and I think he is close to rejoining the training, because for now he is only running."

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The former AmaZulu anchorman will not find it easy to push his way back into the starting line-up, with Ouaddou happy about the form the team is currently in.

Pirates closed the gap between themselves and Betway Premiership log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns to three points with two games in hand, and Ouaddou admitted they were mindful of having to chase.

As Pirates approach the 10-game mark in the league, Ouaddou gave a brief report card regarding their progress so far.

"The team is improving and doing well. I cannot say that everything has been perfect; we still have some areas to improve on, but for now, I'm happy about the commitment and the professionalism of my players.