Orlando Pirates have confirmed the last game coach Jose Riveiro will manage before his exit from the Soweto giants.
The Spaniard has been with the Sea Robbers since the 2022/23 season, helping them win five trophies. It could have been six last weekend, but Kaizer Chiefs claimed a 2-1 win in the Nedbank Cup to end their decade-long trophy drought. This season, the Buccaneers reached the Caf Champions League semi-final but ended up falling to Pyramids who will now play Mamelodi Sundowns in the final.
A couple of weeks ago, the two parties confirmed the almost-ending contract will not be extended. According to Bucs management, the tactician will now leave before the Premier Soccer League concludes.
Pirates confirm Riveiro decision
“Orlando Pirates Football Club can confirm that Head Coach Jose Riveiro will be on the bench for the final time when the team hosts Golden Arrows on Tuesday evening,” the Soweto giants confirmed in a statement.
Club's chairman Dr. Irvin Khoza then explained why the decision was reached, “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,” he said as quoted by the club's media team.
“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.”
Riveiro grateful after getting Bucs' chance
“I want to express my sincere appreciation to Orlando Pirates for allowing me the opportunity to leave before the end of my contract. As someone who has never found goodbyes easy, this moment is particularly emotional for me,” the Spaniard stated.
“I am deeply grateful to everyone at the club, from management and technical staff to the players and the many individuals behind the scenes who work tirelessly to support the team.
“To the players, thank you for believing in the journey we shared and for giving everything on the pitch. And to the supporters. When I first arrived, I challenged you to come out in your numbers and rally behind your team. You did that, and more. You turned every match into a moment to remember, and your passion is something I will carry with me forever. Thank you for allowing me to be part of this great Club’s story.”
Club's assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi will be on the wheel until Pirates make a decision on the new coach.
