Ncikazi breaks silence on alleged rift with Ouaddou at Pirates

Mandla Ncikazi, the new coach of Golden Arrows, has addressed allegations of a feud with former assistant coach Abdeslam Ouaddou while he was at Orlando Pirates. The dispute reportedly stemmed from Ouaddou's ultimatum to Pirates: release Ncikazi as his assistant or resign. However, Ouaddou has denied these claims, stating that his relationship with Ncikazi was healthy and that he wouldn't acknowledge any tension by kissing Ncikazi's forehead.

Pirates confirmed Ncikazi's departure last week, citing his request to take up the head coaching role at Arrows. Upon learning about the reported rift during Arrows' match against Mamelodi Sundowns, Ncikazi chose a tactful approach. He emphasized the importance of maintaining respect for former employers and cautioned against speaking ill of them, stating that such actions could offend current employers.

Ncikazi further explained that he avoids discussing internal issues of any club he is associated with, as it is his responsibility to safeguard the environment in which he works.