Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou believes Patrick Maswanganyi is hitting top form at the perfect stage of the season as the Buccaneers continue their pursuit of the Betway Premiership title.
Maswanganyi was once again among the goals as Pirates cruised to a comfortable 3-0 victory over Magesi FC at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday.
The attacking midfielder has enjoyed a major turnaround after struggling for rhythm during the first half of the campaign.
Earlier this week, Maswanganyi also scored and provided an assist in Pirates’ impressive 2-0 win over Stellenbosch FC at Athlone Stadium.
Despite winning the PSL Players’ Player of the Season award during the 2023/24 season, the midfielder initially battled for consistency while adapting to Ouaddou’s demanding tactical approach.
His preferred No.10 role was also frequently occupied by rising star Relebohile Mofokeng, who is widely tipped to challenge for the PSL Footballer of the Season award.
However, whenever Maswanganyi has been given an opportunity, he has made an impact.
The midfielder has now scored nine goals and provided three assists in 31 appearances this season, making him the Pirates’ most productive attacker per minute played.
Ouaddou believes the player now fully understands his responsibilities within the system.
“Fantastic. I think it is fantastic, first of all, for him, and fantastic for the club,” said Ouaddou.
“At the beginning of the season, maybe the way I wanted us to play was a little too intense for him. But now he understands it. He knows the expectations.”
The Pirates coach also praised Maswanganyi’s creativity and composure in key attacking areas.
“He can score, provide assists, and he has the freedom to operate in those areas,” added the Moroccan mentor.
“It is very important to have a player like that.”
With Pirates still chasing their first league title since the 2011/12 season, Ouaddou will now hope Maswanganyi can maintain his excellent form in the club’s final two fixtures against Durban City FC and Orbit College FC.