Orlando Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi has been missing from the technical bench for several matches this season, and there is now fresh speculation about his future at the club. Some reports suggest his absence could be linked to tension with head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. The club has not confirmed this, and the exact situation is unclear.

The club has said that Ncikazi had knee surgery during pre-season. It explained that he was still feeling discomfort after the procedure and needed more time to recover in KwaZulu-Natal. Reports published this week, however, claim there may be more to his absence than his recovery. These claims have not been officially confirmed by Pirates.

Former Pirates winger Mpho Mbuyane has added to the discussion. His comments reflect the uncertainty around the situation, and the saying "where there's smoke, there's fire" has been used in coverage of his views on a possible fallout between the two coaches. A comment like this is an opinion and does not confirm that a rift exists. No departure has been announced, and no clear public explanation of any disagreement has been given.

Ncikazi joined the Pirates technical team in 2021. His experience in South African football has given the club some continuity through different coaching periods, including the time under Jose Riveiro and now under Ouaddou. He has also been linked with a possible return to Golden Arrows, where he previously had success as head coach. Reports named him as a possible candidate if the Durban club decides to make a change. Golden Arrows have played down the talk and said Pitso Dladla remains in charge.

The uncertainty comes at an important stage of the season, with Pirates playing in both domestic and continental competitions. Ouaddou continues to lead the team with the help of the rest of his technical staff. Supporters are now waiting to learn whether Ncikazi will return to the bench or move on. Until the club or the people involved say more, the reported rift remains an allegation and not a fact.

Source https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2113229139087921445