Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has revealed the secret behind Deon Hotto’s extraordinary work ethic, which sets him apart at the club.
Hotto’s tireless running and ability to regain possession have been pivotal in Orlando Pirates’ success in the last few seasons, with the club making history by winning the MTN8 three times in a row and also clinching back-to-back Nedbank Cup titles
According to Transfermarkt, the Namibian star has featured in 30 games in all competitions this season. This includes 10 appearances in the 2024/25 edition of the CAF Champions League. He has only missed two games for the Soweto giants this season.
In addition, Hotto has played six games for Namibia in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, but his efforts were not enough to help his nation book their ticket to Morocco.
He has registered six goals and six assists, respectively, across all competitions this campaign. Furthermore, he has been a regular at Pirates as he has featured in 197 games since joining the club in 2020. Last season, he featured in 41 games, 27 of those in the league.
The tireless 34-year-old has showcased his ability to dominate on the wings, not through physicality but through sheer persistence and speed.
And his performance against Baroka FC on Saturday in their 3-1 Nedbank Cup win at Orlando Stadium was no exception. Hotto provided the assist for their first goal which was scored by Tshegofatso Mabasa.
WHAT RIVEIRO SAID ABOUT HOTTO’S INCREDIBLE WORK ETHIC
And an impressed Riveiro went on to hail his dedication. The Spanish coach said Hotto’s genetic makeup helps him give consistent and tireless performances.
“There are two components when you get players like him [Hotto]. We have many players with the same genetic and conditional capacities. Deon is one of them.
“Everyone can see it, and it’s not only his capacity to run fast. But the ability to repeat those runs, again and again, to play 90 minutes every two or three days.
“He is a true professional; in this case, Deon knows how to take care of himself. His life is fully dedicated to the game, and that’s why, hopefully, he can continue at this level for a very long period.
“Like I said, he’s not the only case but probably one of the cases who is calling our attention,” Riveiro said.
RELATED STORY: Hotto identifies new coach Riveiro’s strengths
