‘Last season’s group played 52 matches—that kind of workload is only manageable with a well-planned preseason,’ said the Pirates assistant coach.
Orlando Pirates arrived in Spain on Tuesday ahead of their pre-season camp.
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The Buccaneers assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi says that Pirates must plan well ahead of another busy campaign.
Pirates’ Ncikazi – ‘All systems go’
“Today is about recovery, but from tomorrow it’s all systems go,” said Ncikazi on Tuesday.
“The upcoming season will be tough, so our preparation must cover all possible scenarios.
“Last season’s group played 52 matches—that kind of workload is only manageable with a well-planned preseason.
“We have a new crop of players that we need to integrate into the group as quickly as possible.”
Pirates have certainly been busy in the transfer market ahead of the new campaign.
Sipho Mbule, Sinoxolo Kwayiba, Tshepo Mashiloane, Oswin Appollis, Nkosikhona Ndaba, Tshepang Moremi, Sihle Nduli and Yanela Mbuthuma have all joined the Buccaneers fold.
Pirates are in camp in Spain’s coastal town of Marbella.
The Bucs’ Spanish schedule
Pirates will play English side Bolton Wanderers on Friday, and will then take on Cypriot outfit Pafos FC on July 13.
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The Buccaneers will then take on Spanish second division side Las Palmas on July 17, before taking on another Spanish second-tier side – Granada – on July 19.
