The uncertainty that lingered over Orlando Pirates after their historic Betway Premiership triumph has finally been put to rest.

For weeks, supporters questioned whether head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou would remain at the helm after his emotional admission that he was “tired” following one of the club’s most memorable seasons. Those comments fuelled widespread speculation that the Moroccan tactician could walk away despite leading Pirates to the 2025/26 league title.

Now, speaking from the club’s pre-season training camp in Spain, Ouaddou has revealed what was really behind those remarks, insisting they were never a signal that he intended to leave Orlando Pirates.

Speaking to former Pirates midfielder and content creator Michael Morton, Ouaddou said his words had simply reflected the immense physical and emotional demands of managing one of South Africa’s biggest football clubs.

“I was just being honest with people. I felt tired because leading such a fantastic club with fantastic fans is demanding. Everybody knows that,” said Ouaddou.

“I don’t understand why some people find it hard to believe that sometimes a coach can be tired. But it’s fine. I’m back and I’ve recharged all my batteries. I’m not 100% fit, I’m 2,000%.”

His comments are likely to reassure Pirates supporters who feared the club could lose the coach who guided them to domestic glory.

In the aftermath of the title-winning campaign, reports linked Ouaddou with coaching opportunities in both Europe and North Africa. The speculation intensified after his candid assessment of his physical and mental fatigue at the end of the season.

However, the Pirates boss has now dismissed any suggestion that he was considering an exit, stressing that loyalty to the club has never been in doubt.

“I read a lot of things saying the coach has job offers in North Africa and Europe,” he said.

“But people need to understand that I am very loyal. Mpumi, Nkosana and their father, Irvin Khoza, gave me the opportunity to coach such a big club. That opportunity is not given to just anybody.

“I have a lot of respect for them, and I must also remain loyal to our supporters.”

Ouaddou’s remarks underline his commitment to continuing the project at Orlando Pirates as preparations intensify for the new season.

After delivering the Betway Premiership title and enduring the relentless pressure that comes with managing one of South Africa’s most demanding clubs, the Moroccan coach says he has returned refreshed, re-energised and fully focused on building on last season’s success.

For Pirates fans, the message is unmistakable. The coach who briefly sparked fears of an exit insists he never planned to leave, and he believes he is returning stronger than ever.

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