Orlando Pirates fans remain in the dark regarding who their new manager will be following the departure of Jose Riveiro.
Former PSL coaches Rulani Mokwena and Pablo Franco Martin are reportedly in the race to take over the reins, one of the most coveted roles in African soccer.
The former is a proven winner, having led Mamelodi Sundowns to four successive league titles from 2020 to 2024, while the former AmaZulu FC coach Martin experienced success with Qadsia SC in 2020 when they became Kuwait Super Cup champions.
According to reports, Orlando Pirates are in talks with the latter, meaning Riveiro’s successor could be a fellow Spaniard.
“There have been talks between Pablo Franco Martin and Orlando Pirates,” an inside source revealed.
“An offer has been made but he is not the only coach the club is looking at and there are other candidates. He is very interested in the Pirates job, and he has since parted ways with the club he was coaching in Saudi Arabia despite being made an offer to increase his salary to renew his contract.”
Is Mbokazi really leaving?
Orlando Pirates reported that they will not be entertaining any offers related to starlet Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who has enjoyed a breakout year since debuting under Riveiro’s command.
The Buccaneers response comes after Al Ahly’s, Riveiro’s suspected new home, confirmed interest in the 19-year-old sensation.
“Al-Ahly club officials have already begun exploring the possibility of signing South African defender Mbekezile Mbokazi during the upcoming summer transfer window, ahead of the Club World Cup, with the player being registered under the exceptional registration period that FIFA announced would open starting next June,” said Sport El Watan.
PREDICTIONS: WHO WILL BE ORLANDO PIRATES’ NEXT COACH BE?
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