There’s something extra special about seeing a club legend return—not just to reminisce, but to lead.
And that’s exactly what’s happening at Orlando Pirates.
Joseph “Duku Duku” Makhanya, a name many Bucs fans hold close to their hearts, is officially stepping up into a new and exciting role with the senior team.
Years of Youth Development Pay Off
Makhanya has spent the past few years honing young talent as head coach of the club’s DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) team.
Under his leadership, Pirates’ youth setup became a force to reckon with.
His dedication, passion, and clear tactical mind didn’t go unnoticed.
Thanks to his impressive work, the club has decided to promote him—marking a significant moment not just for him, but for Pirates’ future.
A Seat on the Senior Coaching Bench
So, what’s next for Duku Duku? He’s now been officially appointed as one of the assistant coaches for the Pirates’ senior team.
He’ll be working directly under newly appointed head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, joining Mandla Ncikazi, who remains the first assistant.
Makhanya takes on the role of second assistant, stepping into a senior coaching setup that Pirates hope will bring more structure, intensity, and results on the pitch.
Off to Spain with the Squad
Wasting no time in his new role, Makhanya has already jetted off with the rest of the team to Spain for their pre-season training camp.
It’s a critical period for the technical team to gel and prepare the squad for the demanding season ahead—and for Makhanya, it’s a chance to dive straight into the thick of things.
Climbing the Coaching Ladder
While he’s already armed with a CAF B License, Makhanya isn’t stopping there.
He’s actively working towards obtaining his CAF A License—a move that underlines just how serious he is about taking his coaching career to the next level.
For Pirates, that kind of ambition is exactly what they want on the bench.
Roscoe Krieling Steps In to Fill Big Shoes
With Makhanya moving up, the club didn’t waste time finding his replacement.
Former SuperSport United DDC coach Roscoe Krieling has taken over the youth team.
If that name rings a bell, it’s probably because Krieling led SuperSport to a DDC title back in 2023.
Now, he’s got his sights set on doing the same with the Buccaneers.
Is Makhanya a Future Head Coach in Waiting?
Given the trajectory he’s on, it’s fair to ask—could Joseph Makhanya eventually become the head coach of Orlando Pirates? It certainly looks like the club is grooming him for something big.
With his roots in the club, passion for the badge, and increasing coaching pedigree, the idea isn’t far-fetched at all.