Ouaddou Discusses New Pirates Midfielder Mariko

A new midfielder from Mali, Abdoulaye Mariko, has joined Orlando Pirates.

He showed promise in his debut match, but coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has limited his playing time.

According to Ouaddou, Mariko needs a careful approach to integration. “Training is different from the actual game,” the coach explained to the media.

He noted that the style of play Mariko is used to differs from what is expected here, requiring an adjustment period.

“As a coach, I don’t want to rush him. I want to develop him gradually to reach his full potential in the coming months,” Ouaddou stated.

Also read: Tshepang Moremi wins Player of the Month award

“It’s a planned process. We’re giving him time to improve,” he added.

Next, the team will face St. Lupopo in the CAF Champions League preliminary qualifiers on Sunday, October 19, in the Democratic Republic of Congo.