Jose Riveiro wins! Ex-Pirates tactician appointed head coach of 12-time Swedish champs

Former Orlando Pirates tactician Jose Riveiro has landed another coaching job with a top Swedish club.

The Spaniard served the Buccaneers for three seasons, but opted against extending it when it expired at the end of the 2024/25 campaign. Before his exit, he had helped the Soweto heavyweights win three MTN8 crowns and two Nedbank Cups.

Furthermore, he helped Pirates finish second in PSL for three consecutive editions as well as the 2024/25 semi-final of the CAF Champions League where they fell to eventual champions Pyramids.

He left for Al Ahly, where he lasted for a couple of months but failed to deliver as anticipated.

Riveiro unveiled by AIK Fotboll

“AIK Football has agreed with José Riveiro on the role of new head coach of the club’s men’s team. The 48-year-old Spaniard most recently came from the Egyptian giants Al Ahly, but also has previous coaching experience from Finland, Spain and South Africa, among others. The agreement is valid until December 31, 2028 and José will join on the first day of the training camp in Spain,” the club confirmed through their media team.

Club’s Recruitment Manager Milka Takkula explained the decision, “We chose José as the new head coach after an extensive recruitment process where we sought a coach who would fit the playing style that AIK strives for, as well as fit into the club’s deeper culture. Jose is an excellent match in both of these areas. His understanding of modern football and its development, including player development, is at a very high level. In addition, his personality and values ​​fit well into the club environment. It is with great enthusiasm that I look forward to working together with him and the team.”

Coach Riveiro has promised to deliver for his new team, “I am very proud and happy to be part of a club that truly lives and breathes football. AIK is a club with a strong identity, high ambitions and an enormous passion around the team. Now I am really looking forward to getting started, building relationships and working closely with the players and my colleagues to develop the team every day and take the next step both individually and collectively.”