Pirates Face Right Back Dilemma After Matuludi Miss - Coach Wants New Signing
Orlando Pirates are facing a shortage at right back after coach Abdeslam Ouaddou admitted the club lacks depth in that position. Their only recognized right back, Kamogelo Sebelebele, is under pressure to play every match, and backup options are limited. Adding to the concern, Pirates lost out on Thabang Matuludi to Mamelodi Sundowns, leaving even fewer solutions after recent departures. Ouaddou has highlighted the need for a specialist right back to bolster the squad and maintain their competitive edge.
- Pirates lack right back depth, with Sebelebele as the only specialist.
- They missed out on signing Thabang Matuludi, who joined Sundowns.
- Coach Ouaddou calls for urgent reinforcement in the position.
Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou admitted the club lacks sufficient depth at right back (Getty Images).
Orlando Pirates have been left with a concern at right back after head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou admitted the club lacks sufficient depth in the position.
The situation has become more pressing after Pirates missed out on Thabang Matuludi, who joined Mamelodi Sundowns.
Ouaddou Calls Right Back Situation A Concern
Kamogelo Sebelebele is currently the only recognised right back in the Pirates squad and has started nine of their 10 matches this season. Ouaddou admitted the situation is a “big concern”, while praising Sebelebele but warning that “he’s not a robot” and cannot be expected to play every game. The coach said he could use an emergency option when necessary, but believes Pirates need a specialist who is comfortable in the position.
Ouaddou explained that using a centre back at right back could work temporarily, but would not be ideal for the style of football he wants Pirates to play. “The emergency wheel will not work all the time,” he said, particularly when the team needs to attack through the wide areas. He added that using a central defender might work for “one or two games”, but important matches require a player who is comfortable in the position.
The coach also revealed that Ghampani Lungu could provide another option, although his recent injury complicates matters. “I can use Lungu but actually he’s coming back from injury, so the solutions start to be limited,” Ouaddou said.
Pirates Lose Out On Matuludi
Matuludi had been linked with Pirates before Sundowns won the race for the Bafana Bafana right back. The 27-year-old completed his move from Polokwane City to the reigning league champions, strengthening Sundowns’ options on the right side of defence. His arrival at Chloorkop means Pirates have missed out on a player who could have provided valuable competition and cover for Sebelebele.
The timing of the move makes the situation more significant for Pirates, given the departures of several right-back options. Deano van Rooyen also left the Buccaneers and joined Sundowns, while Thabiso Lebitso and Siyabonga Ndlozi have also departed, with Tshepo Mashiloane currently on loan at Sekhukhune United.
With Matuludi now off the market, Pirates may need to identify another specialist right back to provide the depth required for a demanding campaign.
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