Abdeslam Ouaddous ambitious vision for Marumo Gallants

The Moroccan coach has been impressive since joining the Bloemfontein-based club earlier this year, having turned them into top eight contenders on the final day of the season, after finding the team flirting with relegation when he first joined. 

In an exclusive interview with SABC Sport, Ouaddou says he’s had conversations with chairman Abram Sello about his vision to compete for silverware.

"Some discussions have taken place between me and the chairman, and the conversations centered around the club being more ambitious. 

"I have conducted an audit on the need to develop this club, I am a young coach, I am an ambitious coach, and I want to compete in the African competitions. For that to happen, we must build stable foundations for sustainable performance," said the Moroccan tactician. 

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Ouaddou says the club should also invest in youth structures to make sure there’s sustainability for the first team in the long term. He believes they can take advantage of the passion for football in the City of Roses and help the community.

Gallants were languishing in the relegation zone when Ouaddou took over at the end of February, and has had a fantastic short stint so far, which includes wins over both Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs to finish in 10th position overall. 

He revealed what he focused on upon his arrival to reach his objectives.

"When I first arrived, we focused on getting the players back to a level of fitness that is appropriate for the highest level of football. It was very important for us to improve their fitness, and to then shift our approach to a defensive approach-together as a unit."

Marumo Gallants were agonisingly close to a top eight finish this past season, and were undone by a draw against Magesi FC in their final game when a win would have seen them home and dry. However, the 46-year-old says they are not disappointed to have not made it, but are instead happy to have avoided relegation after an initially difficult season.