Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has confirmed the club is actively considering a final signing before the transfer window closes, with a right-back the primary target. The move is aimed at addressing squad depth for a demanding season where the Buccaneers are defending their Betway Premiership title and competing on four other fronts.
Ouaddou acknowledged the ongoing discussions but clarified that final recruitment decisions rest with the club's scouting department. "We hope to have some new players, especially in that position [right-back], we see," the coach said. He added a pragmatic note, stating, "If it's not the case, it's my job to find other solutions. I'm not here to complain."
The need for reinforcement follows the off-season departures of key players Relebohile Mofokeng and Patrick Maswanganyi, which created gaps in the squad. Despite several new arrivals as part of a rebuild, the right-back area has been identified as a concern. This comes as Pirates prepare for a congested schedule featuring the CAF Champions League, MTN8, Nedbank Cup, and Carling Knockout Cup alongside their league defence.
Their form remains strong, sitting second in the Premier Soccer League with 16 points from six games. The team is on a three-match winning streak, most recently beating Marumo Gallants 2-0.
Logistical challenges also loom, with their CAF Champions League preliminary round opponent, African Stars, opting to host the first leg in Botswana instead of Namibia, altering travel plans. Managing the squad across these competitions will be a key test. The club's recruitment team is now working against the clock to finalise any late business before the window shuts.
Further reading: Briefly News
