Orlando Pirates maestro Patrick Maswanganyi has become renowned for his eccentric on-field antics.
His showboating tendencies have caused a divide of opinions among fans. It’s Hollywood-soccer when he touches the ball, and whether one likes it or not, they can’t say they aren’t watching.
Maswanganyi silenced the naysayers after winning last season’s PSL Player of the Year award, suggesting that it’s his expressive style that makes him so great. Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro believes it gives him the confidence to take control of games.
“Tito is the type of player that South African football fans want to see on the field, especially in big games. He brings flair, the identity of our football and the origin of our football,” Riveiro said on Pirates TV.
“So, Tito comes from that background, and he must be himself, but he must not forget that we’re playing to win,
“We are in the business of winning and getting three points, we are not in the business of stepping onto the ball, but I think Tito is one of those players that needs to do those things [showboating] to get the confidence and the arrogance which is necessary.”
The Buccaneers will hope Maswanganyi is his flary-self when the take on MC Alger in the Champions League quarter-finals next week.
Upcoming fixtures
MC Alger vs Pirates (April 1, 21:00)
Polokwane City vs Pirates (April 6, 15:00)
Pirates vs MC Alger (April 9, 18:00)
SuperSport United vs Pirates (April 20, 17:30)
Pirates vs Magesi (April 25, 19:30)
Kaizer Chiefs vs Pirates (May 3, 15:00)
Where does Maswanganyi rank on the Orlando Pirates roster?
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