Orlando Pirates has confirmed that Head Coach Jose Riveiro will coach the team for the final time on Tuesday evening during their Betway Premiership match against Golden Arrows. Riveiro, whose contract was originally set to run until the end of June 2025, has been granted an early release after he requested to leave the club ahead of schedule, having already signed with a new team.
A Farewell to Remember
In a statement from the club, Chairman Dr. Irvin Khoza expressed the club’s respect for Riveiro’s decision to depart earlier than planned. “Jose approached us a few weeks ago with a request to be released from his contract ahead of schedule, having signed with a new club. 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,” Khoza said.
The timing of Riveiro’s departure, amidst critical fixtures, prompted the club to delay the announcement until after the Nedbank Cup Final. Dr Khoza also took the opportunity to reflect on Riveiro’s contributions to the club, acknowledging his immense impact during his tenure. “His contribution since joining the club has been immense. We learnt a lot from him, and he learnt a lot from us,” Khoza added.
Jose Reviro A Legacy of Excellence
Riveiro leaves Orlando Pirates with a strong legacy, having made significant strides with the club. His time at the helm saw impressive performances, including securing silverware, and he has written his name into the history books of the Buccaneers. The Spanish tactician’s leadership was instrumental in the club’s successes, and his departure marks the end of a successful chapter.
Riveiro himself expressed his gratitude to the club and its supporters in an emotional message. “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,” he shared. “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.”
He went on to acknowledge the fans, whose passion he said would stay with him forever. “You turned every match into a moment to remember, and your passion is something I will carry with me forever.”
A Tough Goodbye
Riveiro’s departure follows a series of disappointing results, including the recent Nedbank Cup final defeat to Kaizer Chiefs, as well as a loss in the CAF Champions League semi-finals and a defeat to Sekhukhune United in the Betway Premiership. Despite these setbacks, Riveiro remained philosophical, expressing the emotional toll each loss took on him and his players. “Each and every game that we lose – it feels the same. Every game is an opportunity to beat someone, and when you don’t, and you’re competitive, you don’t sleep,” he explained.
However, the coach was quick to reaffirm his belief in his team. “This group played five finals in a row. That’s something exceptional. That’s something we have to give value to,” he said.
The Road Ahead for Orlando Pirates
As Riveiro bids farewell to the Buccaneers, Assistant Coach Mandla Ncikazi will take charge of the team on an interim basis for the remainder of the season, supported by the technical and support staff. Orlando Pirates has called on their loyal supporters, known as the “Ghost,” to come out in full force to the Orlando Stadium on Tuesday night for the final match under Riveiro’s stewardship.
Jose Riveiro’s legacy at Orlando Pirates will not be forgotten, and as his time with the club comes to a close, the fans, players, and management will continue to remember his contributions for years to come.
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