‘I didn’t take it personally’ – Riveiro on being called a plumber 

Orlando Pirates mentor Jose Riveiro has revealed that he “didn’t take it personally” when he was called a plumber after his appointment as the new coach of the Soweto giants in June 2022. 

However, the Spanish coach has proved many people wrong as he has responded to his doubters with two trophies in the just-ended 2022/23 PSL season. 

After starting the DStv Premiership on the wrong footing last term, many started questioning Riveiro’s abilities and if he was up to such a big task at Bucs. But in the end, he managed to guide the Sea Robbers to greater heights. 

The ‘Spanish guitar’, as he is nicknamed by Pirates fans, led the Buccaneers to MTN8 and Nedbank Cup triumphs and qualified for the CAF inter-club football after finishing second in the South African football top flight.

JOSE RIVEIRO: ‘I DIDN’T TAKE IT PERSONALLY’ 

In an interview on Radio 2000, Riveiro divulged that he did not take it to his head when he was labelled as a “plumber” because he wasn’t someone popular. 

“I didn’t take it personally when they said I’m a plumber,” said Riveiro. “Part of it I can understand because they didn’t know me. And also, I wasn’t a former player from Real Madrid]. 

“But I have responded with these cups [referring to MTN8 and Nedbank trophies].” 

JOSE RIVEIRO ON THE FOOTBALLER OF THE SEASON MATTER 

The 47-year-old mentor went on to say he can’t reveal who he voted for in the Footballer of the Season category. However, he did not nominate any player from Mamelodi Sundowns. 

“I can’t disclose who I voted for as Footballer of the Season. But I didn’t nominate any of the players from Sundowns that were there,” he added. 

“I would have voted for Saleng because he’s been brilliant for us. But you can’t vote for your own player.”

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