Abdeslam Ouaddou: No pressure on Orlando Pirates to defend PSL title

The Buccaneers won a historic treble last season by lifting the MTN8 and Carling Knockout trophies, while pipping perennial league leaders to the top-flight title last season.

Relebohile Mofokeng beat off competition from former Orlando Pirates teammate Oswin Appollis and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Teboho Mokoena to be named the Footballer of the Season.

The Bafana Bafana star also scooped the Player’s Player of the Season and Young Player of the Season awards.

Ouaddou was named Coach of the Season, while Goal of the Season went to Camren Dansin, as Sipho Chaine was picked as the Goalkeeper of the Season and Defender of the Season was claimed by Lebone Seema.

Tshepang Moremi was also named as the MTN8 Last Man Standing while Mbekezeli Mbokazi picked an award for Carling Knockout Player of the Season.

Looking to the season ahead, where Bucs start their season with a home clash against Milford on August 1, 2026, the Pirates head coach said his team are preparing for an even better campaign.

"I don't think the awards bring any pressure," Ouaddou explained in the citizen.

"It shows you how this club is organised and how this club is ambitious. When I see players from Pirates winning awards, it is the club that gives us the platform to achieve.

"I always say it is another motivation to go higher. We have to take these awards and keep moving. You must set new targets every morning when you wake up."

While Mofokeng is no longer with Pirates, the club have made a few important off-season signings, namely Ghampani Lungu, Neo Rapoo, Mthetheleli Mthiyane, Thabiso Lebitso, Sbangani Zulu, Matome Mmolai, Aphiwe Baliti and most recently Norwgian striker Sebastian Pedersen.

"I think the scouting department was looking for a profile of player that can help us increase our average chance conversion," added Ouaddou.

“Last season we were the team on the continent that had the most chances created. We need this finisher. I think he is someone who can bring freshness and quality.”