With Orlando Pirates set to begin the search for a new head coach following Jose Riveiro’s decision to depart at the end of the current season, the club is weighing its options for the role. Several high-profile candidates to replace Jose Riveiro with each bringing unique experiences and potential to the table. Below, we look at five top contenders who could replace Riveiro next season.
1. Manqoba Mngqithi
After his dismissal from Mamelodi Sundowns, Manqoba Mngqithi made a swift return to Golden Arrows, where his impact has already been felt. Under his guidance, Arrows have shown a marked improvement, including an impressive 2-1 win over Kaizer Chiefs. Mngqithi’s experience as part of the dominant Mamelodi Sundowns setup, where he helped the team rise to domestic and continental prominence, makes him a strong candidate. His tactical acumen and familiarity with top-tier football could make him a perfect fit for the Pirates’ aspirations.
2. Pitso Mosimane
Arguably the most exciting option, Pitso Mosimane’s name is always linked with high-profile coaching roles. The former Mamelodi Sundowns boss turned Al Ahly legend has a wealth of experience, both domestically and internationally. Mosimane’s remarkable tenure with Sundowns, including winning four league titles and the 2016 CAF Champions League, established him as one of the most successful coaches in South African football history. While his recent ventures with Al Ahly have only solidified his reputation, his high salary demands could pose a challenge for Orlando Pirates, making his appointment less likely but certainly enticing.
3. Mandla Ncikazi
Mandla Ncikazi, currently working as an assistant to Riveiro, is another potential candidate to step into the head coach role. Having been with Pirates for several years, Ncikazi offers continuity and familiarity with the current squad. His knowledge of the club’s structure and players would make for a seamless transition, and his experience in both domestic and continental competitions has proven valuable during Pirates’ recent successes. With his tactical acumen, Ncikazi could be the steady hand needed to maintain Pirates’ competitive edge.
4. Rhulani Mokwena
Rhulani Mokwena’s story with Orlando Pirates is one of potential that was left unfinished when he left the club to join Mosimane at Mamelodi Sundowns. After flourishing as a co-coach with Manqoba Mngqithi and later taking the reins as the senior coach, Mokwena helped Sundowns achieve substantial success, including multiple league titles and an African Football League title. His return to South Africa could be a possibility, although he is currently in the first year of a three-year contract with Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic Club. Mokwena’s deep understanding of South African football, combined with his tactical insight, would make him a formidable candidate for the Pirates job.
5. Fadlu Davids
Fadlu Davids, a former coach at Maritzburg United and Simba FC, also remains a strong contender for the Orlando Pirates job. Having served as an assistant to both Josef Zinnbauer and Mandla Ncikazi at Pirates, Davids is familiar with the club’s culture and expectations. His experience coaching at top clubs like Simba FC, where he gained success in the Tanzanian Premier League, positions him well for a return to the PSL. With a background that includes working with prestigious clubs internationally, Davids could bring fresh ideas to Pirates and guide them back to the summit of South African football.
The Search For Candidates To Replace Jose Riveiro
The search for a new head coach at Orlando Pirates is sure to be one of the most talked-about topics in South African football this off-season. While the likes of Mosimane, Mokwena, and Mngqithi are among the frontrunners, the club could also turn to a familiar face like Mandla Ncikazi or Fadlu Davids. Whatever the decision, Pirates fans can expect an exciting chapter ahead for their beloved club.
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