‘I’m sorry to disappoint you…’: Riveiro when asked about Pirates future
Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro has addressed speculation about his future with the Soweto giants. The 47-year-old is in the final year of his three-year deal with Pirates and is yet to sign an extension.
The Spaniard, a Bucs fan favourite, has led the club to five trophies in just 29 months. This season, he has guided the Soweto giants into the CAF Champions League group stages and given them a strong start to the 2024/25 Betway Premiership season.
Pirates are unbeaten in seven league matches, just three points ahead of defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns.
In addition, the Soweto giants defended their MTN8 title at the start of the current campaign, beating Stellenbosch 3-1 at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
With Riveiro’s contract set to expire in June 2025, there is uncertainty over his future. Interestingly, his right-hand man, Sergio Almenara, departed by mutual consent ahead of the 2025/25 season. Almenara cited family reasons, indicating difficulties integrating into South Africa.
WHAT DID JOSE RIVEIRO SAY WHEN ASKED ABOUT HIS FUTURE AT ORLANDO PIRATES
In an interview with Robert Marawa on Wednesday, 13 November, Riveiro acknowledged the importance of the question. “It’s a good question, an important one probably for many people,” he said.
“I’ll give you the standard answer, which is I’m sorry to disappoint you and disappoint your listeners as well.”
While there have been indications of a potential contract extension, Riveiro remains focused on the task at hand. “Right now, we’re in a very important period of the season,” he explained. “We’re in the middle of the fifth month of the season; we’re not even halfway.”
Riveiro’s primary concern is guiding Pirates to the league title and making a significant impact in the CAF Champions League.
“We have to grab this moment with all of our strength,” he asserted. “We’re in the football business; you never know what’s going to happen in the future. Like I said, there’s going to be a moment to talk about it and be honest about it, and we will see what happens.”
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