Former Pirates Star Questions Ncikazi’s Absence as Ouaddou Rift Speculation Grows

Former Orlando Pirates winger Mpho Mbuyane has raised questions about assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi’s continued absence from the Buccaneers’ technical bench, as speculation grows over his relationship with head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.

Mbuyane’s comments have added to the debate surrounding Ncikazi’s immediate future at the Soweto club. Although Pirates previously attributed his absence to medical issues following knee surgery, reports have suggested that tensions within the coaching setup could also be a factor.

Mbuyane’s view centres on the uncertainty created by Ncikazi’s prolonged absence, with the former Pirates player suggesting there may be more to the situation than has been publicly explained. The phrase “where there’s smoke, there’s fire” reflects his suspicion, but it does not establish that a fallout has occurred.

Ouaddou has previously pushed back against reports of tension, insisting that the environment at Pirates remains positive. He explained that Ncikazi had undergone surgery and was recovering, while urging people not to create problems around the situation.

“The club issued a statement about that; he had surgery, so now he’s recovering. I wish him all the best; that’s all I can say,” Ouaddou said.

Ncikazi has been part of Pirates’ technical team since 2021 and has worked under several head coaches. His experience in South African football has made him an important figure behind the scenes, particularly during the club’s recent campaigns.

His absence has also fuelled speculation about a possible return to Golden Arrows, where he previously guided the team to a fourth-place league finish in the 2020/21 season. However, reports linking him with the position have not, by themselves, confirmed that a move is imminent.

For now, the questions surrounding Ncikazi’s future remain unresolved. Mbuyane’s comments have added another perspective to the discussion, but an alleged disagreement should not be treated as fact without confirmation from the people involved.

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