Orlando Pirates fans have plenty to be excited about right now.
With fresh faces both on the pitch and in the dugout, the club looks to be making serious moves ahead of the new season.
And if you’re a Kaizer Chiefs supporter? Well, you might want to keep a close eye—because the stats and signings are starting to paint a pretty worrying picture.
Ouaddou’s Arrival Brings Grit and Results
New coach Abdeslam Ouaddou isn’t just a former football star—he’s quickly proving himself a capable tactician too.
During his brief time with Marumo Gallants, he turned a struggling side into a team that was genuinely hard to beat.
Across 10 matches in the Betway Premiership, Ouaddou’s team picked up 1.6 points per game with a balanced 4-2-3-1 formation.
That may not sound dramatic, but compare it to Kaizer Chiefs’ 1.14 average and it becomes clear—this man knows how to get more from less.
Some fans are even saying that if Ouaddou could get those kinds of results with Gallants, he could easily outdo Chiefs now that he’s got the backing and squad of a club like Pirates.
Seven New Additions Signal a Fresh Era
It’s not just the man on the touchline that’s new.
Orlando Pirates have brought in seven new signings, showing a clear intent to challenge on all fronts.
The club seems determined to refresh its setup and create serious depth, and that’s exactly what supporters have been calling for.
Abdoulaye Mariko Joins as Midfield Reinforcement
Among those new arrivals is Abdoulaye Mariko, a lesser-known name from Mali’s Djoliba AC—but definitely not without promise.
Mariko made seven appearances in last season’s CAF Champions League, which speaks to his experience on the continental stage.
Though not yet a household name in South African football, Mariko is expected to bring a new rhythm to the Pirates midfield and could prove to be a smart piece of business.
Could Moremi Be the Next Segolela?
There’s also growing buzz about Moremi, who many are already comparing to former Pirates speedster Tlou Segolela.
The explosive pace and fearless dribbling have fans drawing comparisons, but time will tell if he can live up to the hype.
A Word for the Rivals
With all these moves, there’s no denying it—Orlando Pirates are building something.
The team now has a coach with a winning mindset, a refreshed squad with Champions League experience, and an energy that feels different from recent seasons.
Kaizer Chiefs fans might want to pay attention, because if Ouaddou hits the ground running, the Soweto rivalry could get even spicier this season.