Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has encouraged emerging talent Mpho Padime and the club’s new acquisitions to exercise patience, enhance their skills, and demonstrate their readiness for first-team chances as the Buccaneers gear up to begin their 2026/27 Betway Premiership season against Milford FC at the Orlando Amstel Arena this Saturday.
With the new season approaching, the Pirates are filled with promising young talents eager to seize their chance in the senior team, with Padime particularly shining after a standout performance with the club’s reserve squad.
The young star was instrumental in leading the Pirates to victory in the DStv Diski Challenge last season, finishing as the team’s top scorer with an impressive tally of 10 goals.
At merely 19 years old, Padime has taken on the prestigious No. 38 jersey, a number once worn by Relebohile Mofokeng prior to his transition to the Belgian Pro League, which reflects the club’s faith in his potential.
Nevertheless, Ouaddou has emphasized that opportunities will not be granted solely based on age; every player must prove their worth to be included in the squad.
“I’m not here to offer praise just because we are nurturing players,” Ouaddou remarked during the Buccaneers’ media day on Tuesday.
“At this level, players must be ready when called upon. I see young talents with exceptional potential.
“We invited them to camp to immerse them in a high-intensity setting and assess their skills. This is crucial.
“I believe their performance was commendable, yielding us valuable insights. Among the bright talents are Mpho Padime and Simphiwe Masilela, who we will ensure receive game time as needed.
“However, it’s a gradual process. In player development, it’s essential to evaluate the situation and introduce them at the right moment—preferably when the team is on a winning streak, not in challenging situations that might overwhelm them prematurely.
“I’m pleased with what I’ve observed, and as a technical staff, we need to support their progress.
“They must also strive to learn daily during training with us, absorbing knowledge from players with World Cup experience and at elite levels, and they should not hesitate to inquire.”
The Pirates coach also shared his admiration for new signing Neo Rapoo and defender Nkosikhona Ndaba, believing both have the potential to become future Bafana Bafana internationals.
“I view Rapoo as the next international talent alongside Ndaba. Both showcase immense quality and can sustain high levels of intensity,” Ouaddou noted.
“Considering our demanding game model, they can effectively operate in the final third, able to score and deliver superb crosses.
“Rapoo also excels in set pieces. I’m confident he will significantly contribute to our team. With a busy season ahead, I’m optimistic about his achievements.”
