Abdeslam Ouaddou enjoyed a dream debut season with the Buccaneers, guiding the Soweto giants to a historic domestic treble after lifting the MTN8, Carling Knockout and Betway Premiership titles.
However, his remarks following Pirates’ 2-0 victory over Magesi FC in their final league match sparked rumours that he could be preparing to leave the club.
“I need energy, I need power. Without energy, it will be difficult to continue,” Ouaddou said after sealing the league title.
The 47-year-old has now addressed those comments while accompanying Pirates on their pre-season tour of Spain, explaining that he was simply being honest about the demands of coaching one of South Africa’s biggest clubs.
“I had a good time. I was just honest with people. To lead such a fantastic club with fantastic fans is demanding. So, I don’t understand why some people don’t understand that sometimes a coach can be tired,” Ouaddou told SuperSport Bet.
“But it’s fine, I’m back and have recharged all my batteries. I’m not 100 percent, I’m on 2,000 percent.”
Read: Former Orlando Pirates winger Mahlatsi Makudubela announces retirement
Ouaddou also dismissed reports linking him with clubs in North Africa and Europe during the off-season, stressing that he remains committed to Pirates.
“I have read a lot of things saying the coach has offers in North Africa and in Europe. People have to understand that I’m a loyal person. Mpumi Khoza, Nkosana Khoza and their father (Irvin Khoza) – I have a lot of respect for them.
“They allowed me to lead this big club. It is not given to just anybody. So, I must be loyal to them and the fans.”
Pirates opened their pre-season tour in Spain with a 2-1 defeat to Cordoba CF on Wednesday, with Boitumelo Radiopane scoring the Buccaneers’ only goal. They continue their preparations for the new campaign with another friendly against Cadiz CF on Saturday.