“We fully respect his decision to depart before the end of his tenure,” said Khoza.
Orlando Pirates have confirmed that Jose Riveiro’s final match in charge of the team will be on Tuesday evening against Golden Arrows.
Pirates chairman Irvin Khoza confirmed on Monday that the Spanish coach had requested to leave early, and he granted him his wish.
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Khoza said that Riveiro approached them a few weeks ago, requesting to be released from his contract ahead of schedule, having signed with a new club.
“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,” added Khoza.
Riveiro ‘grateful’ to Pirates for releasing him early
Riveiro expressed his sincere appreciation to Pirates for allowing him the opportunity to leave before the end of his contract.
“As someone who has never found goodbyes easy, this moment is particularly emotional for me.
“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,” said Riveiro.
“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,” added the Spaniard.
Pirates also announced that assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi will take charge of the team on an interim basis. He will oversee the remaining matches of the season.
“He will be supported by Head Performance Analyst Rayaan Jacobs and the rest of the Club’s technical and support staff,” read the club statement.
Under Riveiro’s tenure, Pirates won five cup titles and two runner-up finishes in the Betway Premiership before this season.
The Buccaneers looked likely to finish second behind Mamelodi Sundowns again this season. The Brazilians need only a point in their last two games to win the title. That’s if the Buccaneers also win all their remaining games.
