What Abdeslam Ouaddou tells Melusi Buthelezi amid lack of game time | OneFootball

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Ouaddou on Buthelezi limited mintues

Photo: Orlando Pirates @ X

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has revealed what he constantly tells goalkeeper Melusi Buthelezi, who has seen limited game time thus far this season.

The 27-year-old shot-stopper was roped in from TS Galaxy in July 2023 under the tutelage of then-head coach Jose Riveiro.

However, Buthelezi has seen little game time this campaign, with the Bucs mentor reluctant to rotate his goalies, despite often doing so in other positions.

Buthelezi has only made two appearances across all competitions this term, with the other appearances coming in the Carling Cup final against the PSL Carling All-Stars team a fortnight ago.

With his contract set to expire at the end of the ongoing season, the former Morocco international says he always tells Buthelezi to await his chance, with Sipho Chaine the preferred no.1.

“I think it's not the right time to compare my players, I never do that because it's not professional. Every player has qualities and competencies. I believe in my players, my goalkeepers,” said Ouaddou, who has won three three domestic cup title with Pirates up to date.

"Of course, I have to make a selection , Sipho played the first part of the season and he played fantastic in the first part and I always always speak to Buthelezi to be patient, to work and to wait for the right moment.

"Today [vs Carling All-Stars] I think he made a very good game, [he kept a] clean sheet, so he has to continue like that. When the opportunity comes he will be on the pitch. He's not a substitute, he's an impact player.

Meanwhile, the Soweto giants will return to action with a clash against Sekhukhune United in the Betway Premiership at Peter Mokaba Stadium on 24 January 2026.