Mandla Ncikazi Leaves Orlando Pirates to Take Over Golden Arrows

Mandla Ncikazi has officially been appointed as the new head coach of Golden Arrows, marking his return to the Durban-based Premier Soccer League club just a week after leaving Orlando Pirates. His unveiling took place on Thursday, shortly after Golden Arrows announced the dismissal of Pitso Dladla following a challenging run of results at the start of the season.

Ncikazi departs Orlando Pirates after a successful five-year tenure that began when he joined the club in 2021. During his time with the Soweto giants, he served predominantly as an assistant coach—alongside a brief stint as co-coach in 2025—and earned a total of nine trophies as part of the technical team, including contributions to major domestic titles under previous and current leadership.

Orlando Pirates chairman Irvin Khoza expressed appreciation for the departing coach's extensive contributions. "Mandla leaves with our gratitude and our blessing," Khoza stated, noting that the organization respects his desire to embrace a new professional opportunity and take on fresh responsibilities.

The transition follows a period of heavy speculation surrounding Ncikazi's role at Orlando Pirates. Observers and former players had noted his recent absence from the touchline, where he spent matches watching from the stands while recovering from knee surgery. Despite rumors regarding potential internal friction between Ncikazi and head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, Ouaddou publicly dismissed any suggestion of a fallout, stating that the club environment remained positive.

At Golden Arrows, Ncikazi steps into a position left vacant by Dladla, who was relieved of his duties following a difficult start to the Betway Premiership campaign. Although Arrows reached the top half of the standings earlier under Dladla, the team managed only one victory, five draws, and two defeats in their opening eight league fixtures, accumulating eight points.

This appointment marks Ncikazi's second spell in charge of Golden Arrows, having previously guided the team to a historic fourth-place finish during the 2020/21 season. The club's management welcomed his return, highlighting his deep understanding of the team's culture and traditions as vital assets for the remainder of the season.

Ncikazi will face an immediate test in his first match back at the helm. Golden Arrows are scheduled to face Chippa United in a Carling Knockout Round of 16 tie at King Zwelithini Stadium, providing the newly appointed coach an instant opportunity to reverse the team's fortunes and advance in the tournament.