When the Buccaneers began their 2026/27 Premiership campaign against newly promoted Milford at Orlando Amstel Arena, none of the club's new recruits featured in the starting XI. Instead, Neo Rapoo, Siphiwe Masilela and Kabelo Kgosietsile were introduced from the bench during the second half.
The change in strategy comes after Pirates added more than eight players to their squad during the off-season, including Rapoo, Sebastian Pedersen, Gamphani Lungu and Mthetheleli Mthiyane. Ouaddou has made it clear that he will not rush the newcomers into the starting line-up.
The decision follows lessons from last season, Ouaddou's first at the helm after succeeding Jose Riveiro. He handed immediate starts to Tshepo Mashiloane, Sipho Mbule and Sihle Nduli in the opening league fixture, which ended in a 1-0 home defeat to Sekhukhune United.
More new signings started the following league match as Pirates suffered another 1-0 loss, this time away to Marumo Gallants.
Ouaddou's faith in the new arrivals drew heavy criticism from supporters, with some even demanding his dismissal. However, Pirates recovered impressively, winning three trophies, including their first league championship in 14 years.
"You know about the new players... even I take lessons. It's never [too] late to learn Last season we can say that I rushed to put the new players into the starting XI, and this season I have decided to have more stability in the starting XI," Ouaddou said.
"I tried to bring in the new players in the second half against Kruger, and they brought energy and control in the game. It was good to see that these players can help us. I am sure we will see more of them as the season progresses."
