With José Riveiro officially departing Orlando Pirates at the conclusion of the 2024/25 season, attention has quickly turned to what his next move could mean for some of the club’s standout players—especially Monnapule Saleng. The Spanish coach is expected to be announced as the new head coach of Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly, and this development may open the door for Saleng to finally secure a move that previously slipped through his grasp.
Final Game Before New Chapter Begins
Pirates confirmed on Monday that Riveiro would be taking charge of his final match for the club against Golden Arrows. The announcement came with news that the coach had been granted an early release from his contract, initially set to expire in June 2025, after finalizing an agreement to join another club.
All Eyes on Cairo
According to sources close to the situation, Riveiro is on the verge of being unveiled as Al Ahly’s new manager as the Cairo giants prepare for their FIFA Club World Cup campaign. His arrival in Egypt is generating significant buzz, with both fans and local media eagerly anticipating his plans for the squad.
The appointment comes at a crucial time for Al Ahly, who are looking to maintain their dominance on the African continent while also making a strong impression on the global stage. Riveiro’s tactical discipline and player development track record have been widely praised, and there is growing optimism in Cairo that he can elevate the team further—both domestically and in international competitions.
Saleng’s Unsettled Season
One intriguing subplot to Riveiro’s move is the renewed speculation around Monnapule Saleng. The 26-year-old Bafana Bafana winger has been conspicuously absent from the Pirates lineup since their CAF Champions League group stage clash with Al Ahly earlier in the season—a situation that puzzled many, especially considering his impressive performances in the previous campaign.
Jose Riveiro‘s Faith in Saleng
While there were rumors linking Saleng to Al Ahly in the January transfer window, that move ultimately did not materialize. However, those close to the Pirates setup have maintained that Riveiro remained a strong supporter of Saleng, despite his lack of appearances in the latter half of the season. Internal dynamics at the club—not a lack of faith from the coach—were cited as the primary reason behind Saleng’s reduced role.
Al Ahly’s Longstanding Interest
Now, with Riveiro seemingly set to take the reins at Al Ahly, there is growing belief that he could advocate for Saleng’s signing. The Egyptian giants have long admired the winger’s electric pace, ability to take on defenders, and knack for turning matches with his attacking prowess—all traits that Riveiro is intimately familiar with.
Al Ahly had previously explored bringing Saleng on board, particularly during the January transfer window, but negotiations fell through before any deal could be finalized. Despite that setback, the interest never fully disappeared. With Riveiro now positioned to influence recruitment decisions at the Cairo-based club, a renewed push for Saleng may align with both the club’s ambitions and the coach’s tactical preferences.
A Reunion That Makes Sense
Should Al Ahly reignite their interest, the prospect of reuniting with a coach who knows and trusts him could be exactly the kind of opportunity Saleng needs to revitalize his career. After a frustrating season on the sidelines, a move to a club of Al Ahly’s stature, under a manager who rates him highly, might offer the ideal fresh start.
While Al Ahly’s official transfer plans have not yet been disclosed, the possibility of Saleng joining the Red Devils—this time with Riveiro potentially championing the deal—appears more realistic than ever.
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