Outgoing Orlando Pirates coach opens up on departure

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Jose Riveiro will step down from the Orlando Pirates top job at the end of the season, leaving behind a special legacy as the Buccaneers’ most-capped coach in the Premier Soccer League era, having already surpassed 120 games at the helm.

Incredibly, he could also end his time with the team as the most successful coach at Pirates if the Soweto side can overcome Pyramids FC of Egypt in the Champions League semi-finals later this month.

Since joining Pirates in July 2022, the Spaniard has won over fans and followers, overseeing a largely successful period that has since the Soweto giants claim five trophies — three MTN8 titles and two Nedbank Cups.�

The league title still remains elusive, although Pirates are now a clear second to Sundowns, but it does make one wonder whether Riveiro felt he had perhaps achieved all he possibly can at the club.

It has already been well-publicised that he has been ‘home sick’ at times, exacerbated by having to spend so much time away from his family.

FOND FAREWELL FOR THE ORLANDO PIRATES COACH

Speaking after Orlando Pirates overcome MC Alger to advance to the Caf Champions League final four, Riveiro opened up about his time at the club.

“Yeah, you want me to be emotional now,” he commented wryly when asked how he feels about what he’s already accomplished at Pirates.

“My life will never be the same after being Pirates’ coach. What else can I tell you?

“It’s a big change in my life and I’m not talking about football or games. I’m talking about all of those things that you say about how the people are expressing themselves towards me. It’s something [amazing].

“Like I said, my life will never be the same after being a Pirates coach because this is not just one more club, it’s very special.”