“I’m not bringing the whole Marumo Gallants to Pirates” - Ouaddou

Mabuza, a midfielder, joined Pirates this past week in a move that also saw his former teammate Daniel Msendami returning to Gallants on loan, together with Malian midfielder Abdoulaye Mariko. 

Mabuza is the fourth player from Gallants to sign with Pirates since Ouaddou arrived at the club coming from Bahlabane Ba Ntwa in June last year. 

Ouaddou says the scouts have played their part in bringing Mabuza to the club...

"Sometimes people think that I'm bringing all the people from Marumo Gallants over here," said the coach jokingly.

"People must understand that this big club has a scouting department that is responsible for bringing people in based on their identity and how we want to play the game. People must stop thinking that coach is bringing all of Marumo this side."

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Other players that have joined Pirates from Gallants since Ouaddou’s arrival are Nemtajela, Msendami and Mpho Chabatsane. Midfielder Thapelo Mokobodi was also at Gallants and coached by Ouaddou but joined via Stellenbosch FC. 

With Mabuza however, it’s different; he’s a Pirates development product before going to M Tigers, which campaigned in the ABC Motsepe League, and Lerumo Lions in the National First Division.  

Ouaddou shares more on what to expect from the attacking midfielder... 

"Mabuza can help us in terms of quick decision making and making the last pass. He can enjoy a lot of activity in the heart of the game between the lines, and he is also able to score as well. He is able to play short and long, he can combine, and I really think he can fit into our system. The only question is, will he be able to handle the pressure of this club."

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has revealed that the Bafana Bafana attacker, Mohau Nkota is still recovering from an injury and will only be available for action in three to four weeks. 

On loan from Saudi Pro club El Ettifaq, Nkota is yet to train with Pirates since his return to Esgodini.