Orlando Pirates confirm appointment of former Yanga SC coach after Kaizer Chiefs snub! 

Having already bolstered their playing staff, Orlando Pirates have now beefed up their technical staff by appointing one of the most highly rated coaches in Africa. 

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On Thursday, Pirates welcomed a new member of staff, who was on the verge of joining arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs two months ago!

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It feels like just yesterday when Chiefs were negotiating with Nasreddine Nabi to be their head coach, with the Tunisian insisting on bringing his own staff. In the end, that proved to be the sticking point between Chiefs and Nabi, with the two parties failing to agree to terms. Part of that coaching staff and terms they could not agree on included his former strength and conditioning coach at Young Africans, Helmi Gueldich. It is also believed that while negotiations were happening on one side of Soweto, Pirates were working swiftly behind the scenes to lure Nabi’s countryman. 

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This publication also reported during that time that Pirates were trying to hijack any deal taking Gueldich to Chiefs. In the end, that move did not materialise, and the highly-rated coach did not have much of a decision to make. Last month, the publication also reported that Buccaneers had wrapped up the agreement with Gueldich and that the only thing missing was his travel documents to come to the country. 

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That now seems to have been sorted out as Pirates have finally announced the arrival of Gueldich on their official website and social media platforms. 

Pirates appoint Gueldich

“Orlando Pirates is pleased to announce the appointment of Helmi Gueldich as Conditioning Coach. Gueldich brings with him a wealth of experience and expertise, having recently worked as the Strength and Conditioning (S&C) coach for Tanzanian League Champions, Yanga FC. Notably, Gueldich is not only a seasoned professional but also a former player, holding a Ph.D. in Exercise Science. His wealth of knowledge and background will be a valuable asset to the team.” Wrote an insert on the club’s website.

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Pirates also noted the importance of appointing Guedich in a season where they will be competing on five fronts.