Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has provided an update on Sebastian Pedersen and explained why the highly anticipated new attacker is yet to make his competitive debut for the Buccaneers.
Pedersen has already caught the attention of the Pirates coaching staff during training, with Ouaddou particularly impressed by the striker’s natural finishing ability. The coach insists he did not need weeks of observation to recognise that Pedersen knows how to find the back of the net.
“He has the quality to finish, definitely,” Ouaddou said.
However, the Pirates boss made it clear that having the quality to score is only one part of the equation. Pedersen must first reach the required level of fitness before he can fully demonstrate what he is capable of in competitive matches.
“Now the question mark is whether he can put his qualities on the table, and to show his qualities it’s important to be fit, and in that area he is not 100%,” Ouaddou explained.
The comments offer an important insight into why Pirates supporters have not yet seen their new forward in action. Rather than rushing him onto the pitch, the club appears to be taking a measured approach to ensure he is physically prepared for the demands of top-level football.
Ouaddou also revealed that the club’s performance department is working closely with Pedersen as he continues his preparation.
“The performance department is working closely with him to have him fully ready,” he added.
For Pirates fans, the message is clear: Pedersen’s debut is not being delayed because of doubts over his ability in front of goal. Instead, the club wants to make sure that when his opportunity arrives, he is physically ready to make an immediate impact.
The coach’s confidence in his finishing will undoubtedly increase anticipation around his eventual debut. If Pedersen can reach full fitness and translate what he has shown in training into competitive matches, he could become another dangerous attacking option for the Buccaneers.
For now, patience is the name of the game. Pirates are preparing the finisher before unleashing him.
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