Former Orlando Pirates winger Tlou Segolela has spoken about the departure of assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi from the Buccaneers.

Segolela believes Ncikazi’s exit will be felt by the players. At the same time, he is confident the club has the experience and professionalism needed to move forward without major problems.

Ncikazi left Orlando Pirates last week after discussions with management. He expressed his wish to take up a head coaching role again and the club gave him its blessing. He has since returned to Golden Arrows as head coach.

During his time with the Soweto giants, Ncikazi served mainly as assistant coach. He was also briefly co-coach in 2025. In total he was part of the technical team that helped the club collect nine trophies. Chairman Dr Irvin Khoza thanked him for his contribution and wished him well in his new role.

There had been talk of tension between Ncikazi and head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou after the assistant missed some recent matches. Ouaddou said the absence was linked to recovery from knee surgery and insisted everything was fine at the club. Pirates later confirmed the departure was simply about Ncikazi wanting to lead a team again.

Segolela, who knows the club well from his playing days, said the players will notice the change because Ncikazi had been a steady presence on the technical bench. He pointed out that Pirates have been through coaching changes before and always found a way to keep performing. The club’s structure, the quality of the remaining staff, and the professionalism that runs through the organisation should help the team stay focused.

For now the Buccaneers continue under Ouaddou as they push on in the league and continental competitions. Ncikazi begins a new chapter back at Golden Arrows, the club where he previously enjoyed success as head coach.

Segolela’s comments strike a balanced note. He recognises the value Ncikazi brought while showing faith that Pirates have the strength to carry on.

Source: https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2114800628744536266