I didn’t mean to offend anyone, says Ncikazi
ORLANDO Pirates co-coach Mandla Ncikazi has made various headlinemaking comments in recent weeks.
His recent utterances about Mamelodi Sundowns’ stronghold on the transfer market received backlash from Pirates fans.
The former Golden Arrows mentor suggested that Sundowns have access to a group of players inaccessible to the rest of the teams in the Premiership, and that their financial prowess affords them a clear advantage.
“I think the financial fair play rules have to come into effect, and we must cap their finances,” he said.
“Some teams are playing with development players, getting young players. Most developments were closed, Safa (the SA Football Association) was closed … but Sundowns buys at Woolworths, and we buy at Pick n Pay and Spar.”
However, the comments haven’t been received too kindly by the Buccaneers faithful and they have been vocal about their displeasure on various social media platforms.
Ncikazi spoke to SAFM host Thabiso Mosia on Monday evening and took the opportunity to convey his apologies to the ‘Ghost’, while refusing to respond to comments made by former Pirates head coach Rhulani Mokwena.
“I’d like to apologise to the supporters of Pirates for my comments about Woolworths/ Pick n Pay,” he said.
“I didn’t mean to offend anyone. There’s already comments from other teams and because of that, I won’t say anything further because I think that person has an issue with me and Pirates.
“I don’t even want to clarify myself, because I don’t want to cause any more controversy, especially after the person who commented said those things. He has never had anything nice to say about me or Pirates anyway.”