Abdeslam Ouaddou hints at Orlando Pirates transfer rethink amid right-back shortage

Abdeslam Ouaddou hints at Orlando Pirates transfer rethink amid right-back shortage

Ouaddou's concerns emerged after the Buccaneers secured a 3-1 victory over La Cure Waves SC in the second leg of their CAF Champions League first preliminary round tie at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday.

Kabelo Kgositsile, Kamogelo Sebelebele and Yanela Mbuthuma were on target as Pirates completed a 4-1 aggregate victory to book their place in the second preliminary round.

The Buccaneers will now face Namibian outfit Africa Stars as they continue their quest to reach the Champions League group stage.

However, while Pirates are making progress on the continental front, their lack of depth at right-back has become a growing concern.

The Soweto giants have parted ways with Thabiso Lebitso, Bandile Shandu, Siyabonga Ndlozi and Deano Van Rooyen, who subsequently joined Mamelodi Sundowns as a free agent.

Sebelebele is now the only recognised senior right-back in the squad, leaving Ouaddou concerned about the demands that will be placed on the youngster as Pirates compete on multiple fronts.

"It's a big concern, [having one right-back], even Sebelebele. I love him, but I cannot push him to 60 games. It's difficult; he's not a robot," Ouaddou said.

The French-Moroccan coach suggested that he could use temporary solutions when necessary, but believes those options cannot provide a long-term answer.

"I can find solutions sometimes, some emergency wheel, like when your car is stuck but the emergency wheel is not going to work all the time, especially with how we want to play; we want to play attacking football using the wide channels."

Ouaddou added that a central defender could fill the position in certain matches, while Gamphani Lungu is another option once he fully recovers from injury.

"We can use a central defender for one or two games, but in the important games you will definitely need somebody who is confirmed in that position."

"I can use Gamphani Lungu, but he's coming back from an injury and the solutions start to be limited, but we will see."

With Pirates juggling their domestic commitments and Champions League campaign, Ouaddou's warning could prompt the club to strengthen at right-back.
 

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