Orlando Pirates coach Riveiro justifies Van Rooyen’s signing – ‘He knows how to win trophies’

The Spaniard is confident his new signing is what the Soweto giants need in their bid to win more trophies next season.

Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro is convinced new signing Deano Van Rooyen will prove to be a gem in the team.

The former Stellenbosch captain was confirmed at Bucs a couple of days ago after his impressive displays for the Steve Barker-led team. The right-back is meant to add more stability to the Bucs’ defense in a busy 2024/25 season.

Thabiso Lebitso, Thabiso Monyane, and Bandile Shandu play in that position for the Sea Robbers.

Why did Pirates sign Van Rooyen

The Spaniard has now explained why he added the 27-year-old to his already impressive squad for the new campaign.

“I think he’s an experienced player in the league, in a fantastic moment of his career, 27 [years old],” Riveiro said 

“[He’s] experienced, he knows how to compete for trophies already coming from doing an excellent job in Stellenbosch. So, he’s going to add fantastic value in defense and attack and hopefully, we can see soon how capable he is.

“We are happy to welcome the new players because each and every who’s coming to this team has the capacity and has the qualities to be here, just wish him all the best like everybody else. I’m sure that he’s gonna help us a lot this season,” Riveiro concluded.

When will Van Rooyen make his debut for Pirates?

After playing in the MTN8 game for Stellies, against TS Galaxy, the defender is cup-tied meaning he will not represent Bucs in the competition.

Sunday’s Caf Champions League first preliminary round against CS-Disciples might be too soon for the player owing to logistical and registration processes.

However, he might be ready to represent the Buccaneers on September 14 against Chippa United in the Premier Soccer League. 

Bucs have now signed three senior players – Gilberto, Selaelo Rasebotja, and Van Rooyen, hoping to challenge Mamelodi Sundowns for the Premier Soccer League title.