Orlando Pirates coach Ouaddou compares Mbule to Zidane
Mbule has taken the PSL by storm since joining Orlando Pirates, and Ouaddou has nothing but praise for the talented midfielder.
Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has heaped praise on Sipho Mbule for getting back to his best.
Mbule joined Pirates on a free transfer at the start of the season following his departure from Mamelodi Sundowns.
And while his move to the Soweto giants divided opinions among the fans, he has silenced his critics.
Now, Ouaddou believes Mbule has everything a coach wants from a player, adding that he is more like Zinedine Zidane.
Ouaddou further advised Mbule to keep working hard, saying if he doesn’t respect football, then football won’t respect him.
Mbule is on his way to the Africa Cup of Nations with Bafana Bafana; something he wouldn’t have dreamed of months ago.
MBULE COMPARED TO ZIDANE BY PIRATES COACH OUADDOU
“Sipho Mbule, if I have to compare him with anyone, I’d compare him to Zinedine Zidane,” Ouaddou said in an interview with Robert Marawa on 947.
“He has talent. He has eyes behind the head. He can see before receiving the ball.
“He can make some fantastic duels that nobody can do. Sipho had a fantastic pre-season, and we have seen the results. He went back to the national team.
“And my advice is keep working Sipho. I’m your big brother, I’m your coach, I’m your friend, I will support you.
“But I will be honest, if you don’t respect football, football will not respect you,” added Ouaddou.
WHAT ARE THE NUMBERS SAYING?
Since his arrival at the Soweto giants this season, Mbule has featured in 16 competitive matches.
The 27-year-old midfielder is yet to score or register an assist but his influence on the pitch has been huge.
Mbule already has two gold medals with Pirates after helping the team win both the MTN8 title and Carling Knockout Cup.