Abdeslam Ouaddou has revealed that he was close to resigning early last season following two consecutive defeats after replacing Jose Riveiro at Orlando Pirates.
The Buccaneers went on to win the 2025/26 Betway Premiership title in a narrow race against rivals Mamelodi Sundowns.
Speaking after guiding Pirates to their first league title in 14 years, Ouaddou admitted that he had offered to step down after the disappointing start, but the club’s management rejected his resignation.
“When I lost the first two matches, I didn’t have a choice but to propose my resignation to the management, but they gave me a chance and supported me with fantastic people around me,” said Ouaddou.
“They didn’t want to hear about that. They said, ‘No, we interviewed you five times and we know you are the man who can lead us to the promised land.’
“They supported me and gave me confidence, so the credit has to go to them.”
Despite delivering league success, Ouaddou’s long-term future at Pirates remains uncertain. The 47-year-old said he would take time to reflect before making a final decision on whether he will continue at the club next season.
“I had the chance to play at the highest level for 14 years, so I’m not chasing contracts or money. I’m doing this job because of passion,” he added.
“I wanted to do it on my continent, in Africa, but you need energy, power and motivation because leading Pirates is not easy.
“You cannot lie to people, this job is very difficult.”
