Ncikazi Breaks Silence: The Shoc-king Real Reason Why He Dumped Orlando Pirates Exposed At Last

Ncikazi Breaks Silence on Pirates Exit as He Reveals Why He Chose Golden Arrows Return

Mandla Ncikazi has finally opened up about the reasons behind his departure from Orlando Pirates, insisting that his decision was motivated by a desire for a fresh challenge rather than dissatisfaction with the Soweto giants.

The experienced South African coach recently brought his five-year association with the Buccaneers to an end after accepting an opportunity to return to Lamontville Golden Arrows as head coach.

Ncikazi, who joined Pirates from Golden Arrows in 2021, enjoyed a successful spell at the club, predominantly serving as an assistant coach. He was also briefly involved as co-coach in 2025.

During his time at the Soweto giants, he was part of a technical team that collected nine trophies, making his departure an emotional moment after several successful seasons.

Explaining his decision, the 57-year-old made it clear that he believed he had accomplished everything he could at Pirates and felt it was time to explore a different chapter in his coaching career.

“I thought, with gratitude, where I’m coming from, I think I achieved everything as a coach. I’m grateful to the big institution and all the memories,” said Ncikazi.

The former Pirates assistant also explained that returning to a head coaching position would allow him to work more closely with younger players while challenging himself professionally.

He revealed that he did not want to approach retirement without experiencing the demands and responsibilities that come with leading a team.

Golden Arrows, meanwhile, presented an opportunity he could not ignore, particularly because of his previous connection with the Durban-based club.

Ncikazi previously guided Abafana Bes’thende to fourth place in the 2020/21 league campaign, which remains the highest league finish in the club’s history.

That achievement appears to have played a significant role in his decision to return.

He believes there is unfinished business at the club and hopes to build on the foundation established during his previous spell.

However, his second chapter at Arrows has started with immediate pressure. The coach suffered a 1-0 defeat against AmaZulu in his first match back before facing another demanding assignment against Mamelodi Sundowns in the Carling Knockout quarter-finals.

Ncikazi has acknowledged that the busy fixture schedule leaves him with limited preparation time to implement his ideas.

Nevertheless, his return represents an opportunity to demonstrate his abilities as a head coach once again.

For Pirates supporters, his departure marks the end of an important chapter, while Golden Arrows will be hoping his experience and winning mentality can help restore the club’s competitiveness.

Source https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2117565010784170088?a=tbviJnt6zO4S7wCgYRU&s=19

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