Orlando Pirates have confirmed that head coach Jose Riveiro will leave the club at the end of the season after opting not to renew his contract. The Spanish tactician, who arrived at the Soweto club in 2022, has informed management of his decision in advance, ensuring a smooth transition as the club begins its search for a successor.
Jose Riveiro: Legacy of Success
Riveiro’s tenure at Pirates has been marked by significant achievements. Under his guidance, the Buccaneers finished as league runners-up in consecutive seasons, securing three consecutive MTN8 titles and back-to-back Nedbank Cup trophies. His impressive record stands at 121 matches, with 77 wins, 20 draws, and 24 losses, resulting in a solid 63% win rate.
In a statement released on Thursday, Pirates chairman Irvin Khoza expressed gratitude for Riveiro’s contributions, acknowledging the success achieved during his time with the club. “While we would have liked Jose to extend his stay with us, at the same time, we fully respect his decision. We are grateful for everything he has done for the club,” Khoza stated. “The achievements of the intervening years speak for themselves. The joy that Jose and his support staff have brought to this club will never be forgotten.”
Planning for the Future
The club’s immediate focus will be two-fold: expressing full appreciation to Riveiro and his team for their hard work and beginning the extensive search for a suitable replacement ahead of the 2025/26 season. “We appreciate the three years of service that Jose has given this institution and fully support his decision. Wherever his journey takes him, he must know that the Orlando Pirates family will always be behind him,” Khoza added.
As the season nears its climax, Pirates are still in contention for the Premiership, Nedbank Cup, and CAF Champions League titles. The club has urged fans to continue supporting the team as they aim for silverware in what could be Riveiro’s final season in charge.
A New Era for Pirates
While Riveiro’s departure marks the end of a successful era, it also signals a fresh chapter for Orlando Pirates. The club has promised to release more information soon regarding the appointment of his successor. As the search for a new head coach begins, Riveiro’s exit presents an intriguing opportunity for the Pirates to build on their recent successes and continue striving for excellence in South African football.
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