Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has moved to clarify the situation surrounding Patrick “Tito” Maswanganyi after confusion emerged over the midfielder’s availability for the Buccaneers’ next match.
Speaking about the situation, the Pirates coach made it clear that Tito has not been suspended, despite reports and speculation suggesting that the influential midfielder could be facing disciplinary action.
“Tito, he’s not suspended guys. Yes, he might not be available for the next match, but not suspended. Thank you,” the coach explained.
The clarification is likely to come as a relief to Orlando Pirates supporters, who have been closely following the midfielder’s situation. Tito has become an important figure in the Buccaneers’ squad, contributing creativity, attacking movement and goals from midfield.
The distinction between being suspended and being unavailable is particularly important. A player can miss a match for several reasons, including injury, fitness concerns, technical decisions or other circumstances, without necessarily being under suspension. Orlando Pirates have previously provided updates when Tito has been unavailable because of injury, including a grade-one strain that required rehabilitation. (Orlando Pirates FC)
There has also been precedent for Tito actually serving a suspension. In November 2025, Maswanganyi was ruled out of the Carling Knockout final after collecting his fourth yellow card of the campaign. (iDiski Times)
However, the latest comments from the Pirates head coach suggest that the current situation should not be interpreted as a disciplinary suspension.
For now, the focus will be on whether Tito is fit and available for the Buccaneers’ upcoming fixture. His absence, should it happen, would undoubtedly be a talking point among Pirates supporters given his importance to the team’s attacking options.
The coach’s message is therefore clear: Tito Maswanganyi is not suspended. Whether he features in the next match will depend on his availability, with supporters now waiting for further clarity from the club.
The Buccaneers will hope to have their star midfielder back as soon as possible as they continue their campaign.
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