How and why Orlando Pirates won five trophies under Riveiro

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Orlando Pirates’ outgoing coach Jose Riveiro is a club legend after five trophies in three seasons. What are his individual qualities?

The quietly spoken Spaniard arrived in Soweto in July 2022. That same season, he lifted the MTN8 and Nedbank Cup before two more MTN8 titles and a second Nedbank Cup trophy in the past two seasons.

Speaking to the media before he departs from Orlando Pirates in June, the assistant Mandla Ncikazi revealed that Riveiro is a unique individual who is more than a coach.

“Coach Riveiro is a very unique individual; more than just a coach, he goes further than that. He is highly professional,” said Ncikazi via FARPost.

“He takes his job very seriously. He is neither too happy nor too disappointed because where there are too many expectations, there is always room for disappointment,” the Orlando Pirates assistant added.

“So, it is easier for the players; whether we win or lose, his approach is the same. I always think that it helps the young players perform without fear. Whether the results are good or bad, he is still the same.

“He is professional, prepares well, and analyses games. He doesn’t rely on analysts, which is a new trend in our teams. He does things for himself so he can create his game plan,” Ncikazi concluded on Riveiro.