Manqoba Mngqithi has singled out Deon Hotto as the ultimate example of work ethic — challenging his own players to match the Orlando Pirates star’s intensity.
The experienced coach did not hold back in his praise, revealing that Hotto is often used as a benchmark during his team talks.
Speaking after his Golden Arrows were humbled by Pirates in a league game on Tuesday Mngqithi reflected on how the work ethic is important.
“I always make an example with Hotto when I talk to my players,” said Mngqithi.
“I think he’s a good football player, but his biggest strength is his intensity — the way he works and runs.”
Mngqithi stressed that the 35-year-old Hotto’s effort levels, especially at his age, should inspire younger players still trying to make their mark.
“When you look at his age and compare it to the intensity he plays with,” added Mngqithi. “It should be an example to younger players who still want to achieve things in football.”
The former Mamelodi Sundowns mentor also pointed out a growing culture within the Pirates squad — one built on relentless work rate.
“You can see it across the team — they run. There’s no laziness. That’s something my players can learn from.”
He even issued a blunt challenge to his own squad.
“If a team as big as Pirates can run like this, and we can’t match that, then it means we don’t have ambition.”
Mngqithi made it clear that while mistakes can happen, effort should never be questioned.
“My players must never be outrun by any team. That’s the standard.”
And in his final message, he underlined the lesson of the day: “The biggest takeaway is the work rate — and even the dribbles that Hotto produced. There’s a lot to learn from him.”
A strong message — and one that puts intensity and effort at the heart of success.