Orlando Pirates have reportedly confirmed the departure of assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi, who is expected to take up a head coaching position at another club in the Betway Premiership. The development represents a significant change for the Buccaneers' technical team, with the experienced coach now being linked with a return to Golden Arrows.

According to the information provided, Orlando Pirates held discussions with Ncikazi on Thursday morning, October 22, 2026, before giving him their blessing to pursue the new opportunity. His expected departure marks the end of an important chapter at the Soweto giants, where he has contributed to the team's success as part of the technical staff.

Ncikazi has been an important figure in South African football, having worked with different teams in the Premier Soccer League. His experience and understanding of the domestic game have made him a respected member of the coaching fraternity, and a move into another head coaching position would give him the opportunity to take on greater responsibility.

One of the notable aspects of his time at Orlando Pirates is the number of trophies he has reportedly helped the club win. Ncikazi is said to be leaving with nine trophies earned during his time with the technical team, an achievement that reflects the success enjoyed by the Buccaneers during his spell at the club.

Winning trophies at a club with the expectations and history of Orlando Pirates requires hard work, tactical preparation and a strong understanding of the demands of the game. Although the head coach usually receives much of the attention, assistant coaches also play an important role in preparing players, analysing opponents and helping implement the team's playing style.

Ncikazi's experience at Pirates could therefore prove valuable as he considers the next stage of his coaching career. Taking charge of a team would allow him to make more decisions regarding tactics, player selection, training methods and the overall direction of the squad.

Reports have strongly linked him with a return to Golden Arrows, a club he previously coached. His possible return has attracted attention because of his familiarity with the team and his experience competing in South Africa's top division.

Golden Arrows could see Ncikazi as a suitable candidate to lead the team, particularly because of his knowledge of the league and his previous experience as a head coach. However, further confirmation is needed regarding the reported appointment, including the details of any agreement and when he could officially begin his duties.

For Orlando Pirates, Ncikazi's expected departure would leave the club with an important decision to make regarding the structure of its technical team. The Buccaneers have ambitions of remaining competitive in the league and making progress in other competitions, meaning continuity and effective planning will be essential.

The club may need to review its coaching arrangements to ensure that preparations for upcoming matches continue without disruption. At the same time, the departure could provide an opportunity for other members of the technical staff to assume additional responsibilities.

Pirates supporters will be interested in how the situation develops, especially given Ncikazi's contribution to the club's recent success. His next move could also be closely followed by Golden Arrows supporters, who may welcome the possibility of seeing him return to the team.

For now, the reported departure and links to Golden Arrows remain the main talking points. Further official details will be needed to establish the final arrangements surrounding Ncikazi's future and how Orlando Pirates intend to move forward without him.

Source; https://www.facebook.com/100089878196925/posts/1079490851723511/?app=fbl