Ex-Orlando Pirates skipper Lucky Lekgwathi believes former Sea Robbers' coach Jose Rieiro should be considered for the Coach of the Season crown.
The Spaniard left the Soweto giants at the end of the 2024/25 season; in his three-year stay at the club, he won three MTN8 titles and two Nedbank Cups. In his final season at the club, Riveiro helped them stage a serious challenge for the Premier Soccer League title after successfully defending the MTN8 crown.
Bucs reached the Caf Champions League semi-final as well as the Nedbank Cup final, where they lost against Pyramids and Kaizer Chiefs, respectively.
Despite Miguel Cardoso winning his first league title with Mamelodi Sundowns and making the Caf Champions League final, the former defender has explained why he feels the Al Ahly-bound tactician deserves recognition.
Riveiro's discipline has been a factor
“For me, the way the season has been, I think so too; Yes, even if Sundowns have won the league for me, I think so, and I think that will be a good send off for him because the guy is also so humble,” he said as quoted by iDiski Times.
“He didn’t have fights with anyone, not other coaches, not the opponents, not even supporters. His discipline can also be a factor in winning the award. To tell you the truth, I will say that since he came to Pirates, every season we have won trophies.
“We are talking about two per season and reached the semi-final of the Champions League and the final of the Nedbank Cup this season. For me, there’s no doubt to say he is the best. I know I played under coaches who have achieved, like Krol.
“The first season he didn’t win anything, the second season he won a treble, and the next season he’s gone. So look at the coach [Riveiro], how long he has been at Pirates and his achievements back him as one of the best,” Lekgwathi concluded.
