Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou departs Marumo Gallants after a brief but impactful tenure
Image: Backpagepix
In a surprising turn of events, Abdeslam Ouaddou has announced his departure from Marumo Gallants, just a few months after taking the reins of the Bloemfontein-based Premier Soccer League side.
The French-Moroccan coach made his announcement through a social media statement on Saturday night, expressing gratitude to the club's staff, players, and supporters for their unwavering support during his time at the helm.
Ouaddou's statement read: 'I would like to announce with this press release the end of the adventure with the Marumo Gallants club.
To the incredible Siwelele Sa Marumo
Thank you for your unwavering support throughout the season. Your chants, your songs, your energy in the stands, they meant everything to us. 🙌🏽#MarumoGallants #BahlabaneBantwa #SiweleleSaMarumo pic.twitter.com/0gv91UkkNu — MARUMO GALLANTS FC (@_Marumogallants) May 21, 2025
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"It has been a great pleasure to have collaborated with all the resources of the club. I would like to thank first of all my players, my president, and all the stakeholders of the club who participated from near or far in this mission to save the club, without forgetting our magnificent supporters.
"The people of Bloemfontein will remain in my heart forever. I wish the best to Marumo Gallants as well as to my players.
"I love you guys. I obviously remain open to any proposal for an ambitious project and am determined to take on a new challenge.'
Ouaddou's tenure at Gallants began in March, replacing Dan Malesela, the former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns defender. His arrival injected a fresh sense of purpose, highlighted by an impressive victory over Orlando Pirates in his debut match.
Under his guidance, the team experienced a revival that left fans buzzing with optimism. He lifted the side from a precarious position to a commendable tenth place in the league and led them to the semi-finals of the Nedbank Cup.
Ouaddou's final game turned out to be a crucial moment, as a victory against Magesi FC could have secured a Top 8 spot.
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