Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has responded to criticism from former club legends over his stance on showboating. Ouaddou had previously taken aim at his players for attempting unnecessary tricks during their victory over La Cure Waves in the CAF Champions League. He warned that he would rather walk away than allow his players to prioritize showboating over efficiency and winning football. The Moroccan coach's comments drew a response from some former Pirates figures, who questioned whether Ouaddou had the right to dictate how the club should play.
Ouaddou has now explained his position after his side's win over Marumo Gallants on Sunday. He emphasized that his priority is winning trophies rather than entertaining spectators. "I heard some ex-coaches from Pirates, some, let's say, legends, saying that coach Ouaddou cannot come here to teach us football," Ouaddou said. "I don't teach football to nobody. I am very humble. I respect the culture, I respect this fantastic country."
Ouaddou drew a clear line between individual skill and what he considers unnecessary entertainment. He insisted that his responsibility is to the current squad and the objectives placed before him. Those objectives include competing for domestic honors while also making an impact in Africa, with Pirates currently balancing the Betway Premiership with their CAF Champions League campaign.
The former Pirates players who responded to his initial comments argued from their own experiences at the club. However, Ouaddou remains focused on his mandate. "I am here for a mandate. I am here to get the results. I am here to take the best for my team and to win games," he said. "There is a difference between skills, to play forward, to score goals, to be efficient, and entertainment."
Ouaddou's comments underline the standards he wants to establish during his tenure. He wants his players to focus on efficient football rather than showboating. "Entertainment, it's not for me. If some people want to see the Harlem Globetrotters, I'm not here to make entertainment. Pirates are here to win games, to shine on the continent and to win cups," he said.
The message to his players remains straightforward: flair is welcome when it contributes to the team's objectives, but winning must come first. Ouaddou's priority is to ensure that his team achieves its objectives, both domestically and in Africa. He is determined to make an impact in the CAF Champions League and compete for domestic honors.
Ouaddou's stance on showboating has sparked a debate among football fans and former players. However, he remains resolute in his decision to prioritize winning over entertainment. His focus is on maintaining the team's standards and achieving success in the Betway Premiership and the CAF Champions League.
Key points
- - Ouaddou prioritizes winning trophies over entertaining spectators. - He drew a clear line between individual skill and unnecessary entertainment. - The coach's focus is on achieving success in the Betway Premiership and the CAF Champions League.
