Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has clarified his role in the club’s player recruitment process.
The Moroccan tactician says identifying and signing new players falls outside his coaching responsibilities.
Despite having extensive connections across Africa, Ouaddou insists he does not use them to bring players to Mayfair.
His comments have shed light on the Buccaneers’ recruitment structure and the responsibilities within their technical department.
Orlando Pirates coach explains the club’s recruitment strategy
Pirates have built a reputation for discovering exciting young talents and developing them into established stars.
Mohau Nkota, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Relebohile Mofokeng and Simphiwe Masilela feature among their notable discoveries.
More recently, Thapelo Mokobodi earned recognition as the league’s Player of the Month.
The club has also benefited financially from developing and selling talented players.
Nkota, Mbokazi and Mofokeng reportedly generated approximately R200 million in transfers within two seasons.
Ouaddou discussed the recruitment structure after Pirates defeated Sekhukhune United 1-0 in the Carling Knockout Cup quarter-finals.
Mpho Padime scored the decisive first-half goal at the Orlando Amstel Arena.
Consequently, the Buccaneers secured their place in the semi-finals.
Following the match, journalists asked Ouaddou whether he would personally identify a prolific striker during their upcoming CAF Champions League travels.
However, the coach explained that Pirates already have a dedicated scouting department.
He believes the department understands the club’s playing philosophy and recruitment requirements.
“Look, I think the club has a very good scouting department,” Ouaddou stated when asked whether he would personally hunt for a prolific striker during Pirates’ upcoming CAF Champions League travels.
“They know exactly what they are looking for, the identity of the club, and the way they want to play. It’s no secret to anybody that I’m here to coach, and I’m not here to scout players.
“I have the players at my [disposal], and I play with the players that I have. Unfortunately, [signing of players] is not part of my duties. Let’s put it that way, it’s not part of my contract to look for players.
Ouaddou reveals why he does not use his African connections
Interestingly, Ouaddou acknowledged that he has an extensive network across the African continent.
His connections could potentially help Pirates identify talented players from different African leagues.
Nevertheless, the Moroccan coach says he does not involve himself in that process.
He maintains that recruitment belongs to another department, while his responsibility remains developing and managing the available squad.
“It’s another department’s job to look for players. Of course, if you ask me about [searching for a striker], I have a big network across Africa, but I don’t bring them here.”
His comments highlight the clear division of responsibilities within the Pirates setup.
While the scouting department identifies potential additions, Ouaddou concentrates on getting the best out of his players.
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