Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has opened up about his relationship with Patrick Maswanganyi following the playmaker’s surprise move to Bahrain.

Maswanganyi left Pirates after becoming an important player for the Buccaneers. However, Ouaddou revealed that their relationship was not always smooth last season.

The coach admitted he was unhappy with Maswanganyi’s approach during training.

“I was not happy with how he was training,” said Ouaddou. “But I was happy how he came from 24th June, fantastic behaviour, fresh, in every training, full of energy every training.”

Ouaddou believes Maswanganyi showed a different level during pre-season. He also feels the midfielder could have been part of Bafana Bafana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup squad.

“I think if he listened to me last season, he would have been at the World Cup, definitely,” added the coach matter-ofa-factly.

Despite their difficult moments, Ouaddou praised Maswanganyi’s ability and contribution to Pirates.

“He’s a fantastic player, a gifted player, every coach would want to have him in their team.”

The coach also admitted that losing the 28-year-old is a blow to Pirates.

Maswanganyi will now begin a new chapter in Bahrain. Ouaddou wished him well but warned that playing abroad will require mental strength.

“He’s going abroad, it’s not easy. He will have to be mentally strong in that region.”

Ouaddou concluded by stressing how important Maswanganyi had become to his plans.

“I was very happy to work with him, especially this season, he was important for us in the middle.”

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