Outgoing Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has landed a new job in Africa following his early departure from the Soweto giants.
Pirates announced on Monday morning that Riveiro has been granted permission to leave early with Tuesday’s PSL match against Golden Arrows at Orlando Stadium set to be his final game in charge of the Buccaneers.
The Spanish coach had announced in April that he would not renew his contract when it expires in June and he was set to lead the club until next month but his new club wants him in early, hence the decision from Pirates.
Pirates shower praise on Spanish tactician
“Jose approached us a few weeks ago with a request to be released from his contract ahead of schedule, having signed with a new club,” Pirates chairman Dr Irvin Khoza said through a club statement.
“Given the timing; amidst a series of crucial fixtures – we believed it was best to delay this announcement until after the Nedbank Cup final. His contribution since joining the club has been immense. We learned a lot from him, and he learned a lot from us.
“While we would have preferred to formally honour him with a proper send-off, we fully respect his decision to depart before the end of his tenure.”
Now, reports in Egypt claim Riveiro has agreed to become the new coach of Al Ahly, replacing Swiss tactician Marcel Koller, who left last month after failing to guide the team to the CAF Champions League final.
What has Al Ahly offered Jose Riveiro?
As per Egyptian outlet Yallakora.com, Riveiro has agreed a two-year contract and will come with his own backroom staff, with his deal set to make him the highest paid coach in Africa.
The outlet also reveals that “The Spanish Guitar” will land in Cairo on Wednesday to finalise formalities for his new job before he begins work as Al Ahly want him to lead them to the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup that begins on June 14 in the United States.
Riveiro leaves a rich legacy at Pirates having revived the club’s fortunes since his arrival in July 2022 and won five trophies, three MTN and two Nedbank Cup, while guiding the Sea Robbers to this season’s Champions League semi-final, a first since 2013.
