Ouaddou urges Pirates’ youngsters to stay focused

Padime made his senior debut in the 3-0 MTN8 semi-final second-leg win over Sekhukhune United, while Masilela has already made several appearances this season.

The youngsters have followed a pathway that has produced several promising players at the Soweto club in recent seasons, including Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Relebohile Mofokeng. 

Ouaddou says he had already been keeping an eye on the youngsters during their time with the reserve side before bringing them into the senior environment during pre-season.

"I saw the potential when they started training in pre-season. I also went to some DDC games, and I asked the coaches if I could see them more in senior training. I am not surprised by their potential, but they must keep working and remain humble so that they can always be coachable."

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Padime was one of the standout performers in the 2025/26 DStv Diski Challenge campaign, registering 10 goals and nine assists.

Ouaddou has also warned the emerging players that talent alone will not guarantee them long careers in professional football. The former Moroccan international has urged them to understand the demands that come with being professional athletes, including making better choices away from the pitch and taking care of their bodies. 

"A career is minimum ten years, so when I have the opportunity to give them game time, I definitely will give it to them, but they must continue to work and be very professional because in football you can rise quickly, but you can fall quickly as well.

"Be careful about your life, and think about football all the time, take care of your body, don't drink and don't smoke."

Ouaddou has been equally impressed by the rapid impact of Gamphani Lungu, who has quickly established himself after joining Pirates from Siwelele FC. The Zambian winger has already become an important attacking option for the Buccaneers, scoring in the most recent game against Sekhukhune.