Orlando Pirates Coach Ouaddou Finally Explains Why He Gets So Emotional on the Touchline

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has explained the passion behind his emotional touchline reactions, revealing that his demanding approach comes from a deep desire to achieve excellence at one of South Africa’s biggest football clubs.

The Moroccan tactician attracted attention during Saturday’s Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium, where his animated reactions reflected the pressure and intensity surrounding one of the country’s most important football fixtures.

Pirates eventually secured a memorable 2-1 victory over their fierce rivals, giving their supporters a reason to celebrate after a challenging encounter.

Speaking after the match, Ouaddou explained that transitioning from a professional playing career to coaching at a club with the stature of Orlando Pirates comes with enormous responsibilities.

“It’s not easy to do this job. When you played for 17 years and then decide to become a coach, especially at a big club like Pirates, you want the best for your team and your club. I am driven by excellence,” he said.

His comments offer insight into the mentality behind his coaching methods and why he expects his players to maintain high standards, even when the team is winning.

Ouaddou explained that his approach to coaching is influenced by the importance of constantly improving, rather than becoming satisfied with individual achievements.

To illustrate his philosophy, he referred to a story involving former Arsenal and France striker Thierry Henry, whose father reportedly maintained high expectations of him during his youth football career.

According to Ouaddou, Henry recalled scoring four or five goals in youth matches but still being encouraged to do more when he returned home.

The Pirates coach believes that the same mentality can help his players improve their performances and reach their full potential.

“I’d like to push my players for excellence, to be better and better,” Ouaddou explained, adding that his responsibilities extend beyond simply giving instructions from the touchline.

He views himself as both a coach and an older brother who wants the best for the players under his guidance.

The Pirates mentor also acknowledged that his intense reactions can affect footballers in different ways.

While some players may respond positively to his passion and use it as motivation, others might feel surprised or uncomfortable when they see their coach expressing frustration.

Ouaddou stressed that emotional control is an important part of competing at the highest level, where pressure and expectations are unavoidable.

His remarks suggest that understanding how individual players respond to criticism is an important aspect of managing a competitive squad.

Pirates’ victory over Kaizer Chiefs was particularly important following their disappointment in the MTN8 final against Mamelodi Sundowns.

Ouaddou admitted that his tactical decisions did not work as intended during the first half of the derby, when Chiefs created opportunities to take control of the match.

However, changes made after the interval helped Pirates improve their performance and eventually secure all three points.

The victory demonstrated the team’s ability to respond under pressure, something that will be important as the season continues.

For Pirates supporters, Ouaddou’s message is clear: winning matters, but he also wants his players to keep improving.

His demanding approach may attract attention, but the coach believes that maintaining high standards is essential if Orlando Pirates are to compete for major honours this season.

https://x.com/i/status/2117233123595329642

Adabright feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com