Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has revealed the lessons drawn from the club's pre-season camp and issued an update on the Buccaneers' readiness for the new season.
The Soweto giants have returned to South African soil after a 12-day camp in Spain as part of their preparations for the new season.
The camp gave the new head coach a chance to see the squad in action as well as integrate the nine new signings that have arrived since the transfer window opened.
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Ouaddou’s men ended their pre-season tour with a single win, two draws and one defeat from their four friendly matches.
Speaking to SuperSportTV after Pirates' final friendly match that ended in a 2-0 win over Spanish second division side Granada, Ouaddou said he was pleased with the sharpness of his squad.
"Like I said, I think the conditions given to us by the club worked. We played four games and everyone had a chance to play," the Moroccan-Frenchman said.
"Like I said, this season, everyone has to be ready to give something to Orlando Pirates.
"Of course, I knew the team before [I came here] because I played against Pirates while at Marumo [Gallants], but a lot of new players have arrived.
"But indeed, these 12 days helped me get closer to the players, to talk to them and to see their abilities in training. So, I have a clear idea about the players, and that is good.
"But not just the players, the staff as well, because it is a staff that was working at the club, and it was an opportunity for me to create a relationship with them.
"Everybody has to be proud to be the coach of such a big club in Africa. Of course, we are excited to return to Johannesbrg to play in front of fans because we know that there are a lot of Pirates fans in South Africa, and not only in South Africa, around the continent as well.
So definitely this season, we want to have them with us, to help us because they will be the 12th man this season."
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Pirates will begin the defence of their MTN8 title on August 2 when they take on Polokwane City in the quarter-final of the cup competition.
The match will be played at Orlando Stadium.
