Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has directly addressed claims his recruitment is creating a Marumo Gallants reunion at the Soweto giants. The comments come after the club's 12th signing of the window, Bheki Mabuza, returned from the Limpopo side.

Ouaddou told reporters that the perception is misguided. "Sometimes people think that I'm bringing all the people from Marumo Gallants over here," he said. The coach stressed that player identification and acquisition is handled by the club's dedicated scouting department, not by him alone. He urged supporters to view the strategy as a collective project for Orlando Pirates, not a personal mission.

The 23-year-old Mabuza's move did involve links to Gallants. As part of the agreement, midfielders Daniel Msendami and Abdoulaye Mariko were sent on season-long loans to the same club. Mabuza himself is a product of the Orlando Pirates development system before his spell at Marumo, making his return a homecoming.

Ouaddou elaborated on what the versatile attacker brings to a squad sitting second in the Premier Soccer League. The Buccaneers have 13 points from five games, with a formidable record of 12 goals scored and just one conceded. Mabuza is seen as a player who can add creativity in the final third, make quick decisions, and contribute goals with his ability to play short passes and longer deliveries.

However, the coach also posed a critical question about the player's readiness. He questioned whether Mabuza can cope with the intense pressure that comes with representing one of South Africa's most storied clubs. This scrutiny is part of the environment at a club currently six points behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns but on a strong run of form.

Injury update and continental focus

While integrating new signings, the team is also managing an injury setback. Winger Sihle Nduli suffered a Grade 3 ligament tear in his ankle during the match against AmaZulu and remains unavailable. His absence will be felt as Pirates prepare for their next challenge, a CAF Champions League clash against La Cure Waves on 12 September.

The team will look to improve on their last result against the same opponent, a 0-0 draw on 6 September. That stalemate is the only blemish in an otherwise perfect recent run, with the last five results across all competitions reading four wins and one draw.

Ouaddou concluded by reiterating his point with a clear message. "People must stop thinking that coach is bringing all of Marumo this side," he said. The focus now shifts to the pitch, where the blend of new signings and existing talent will be tested. Orlando Pirates' next league match comes after their continental duty, as they aim to close the gap at the top of the standings.