A chapter is set to close at Orlando Pirates, as the club has confirmed that coach Jose Riveiro’s tenure is drawing to a close.
Pirates announced the big decision on the future of head coach Riveiro on Thursday via a statement, setting the stage for a period of transition.
Since joining Pirates in 2022, the Spanish coach has led the club to five trophy victories, securing three MTN8 titles and two Nedbank Cup wins. Notably, the Soweto giants also achieved two runner-up finishes in the Betway Premiership under his leadership, both times behind Mamelodi Sundowns.
However, with his contract set to expire at the end of the current season, Riveiro has notified Pirates management of his decision not to extend his deal beyond its current term.
The reasons behind Riveiro’s decision not to renew his contract remain unclear. But Pirates recently released a two-part documentary, ‘BucsCamp: The Coach,’ chronicling his time with the club, which suggests a farewell gesture.”
JOSE RIVEIRO WILL NOT RENEW PIRATES CONTRACT
The 1995 CAF Champions League winners, Pirates announced that Riveiro will step down as head coach at the end of the season.
“José Riveiro has informed management of his decision not to renew his contract beyond its current term. The Spanish mentor’s contract is due to expire at the end of this current campaign,” the club said.
“His professionalism and commitment to the club’s best interests prompted a timely announcement, ensuring business as usual for the remainder of the season while simultaneously creating an opportunity for the Club to prepare for the future. In accordance with the coach’s wishes, the Club will refrain from making detailed pronouncements at this time, reserving comprehensive tributes for a more appropriate occasion.”
ORLANDO PIRATES CHAIRMAN DR IRVIN KHOZA PAYS TRIBUTE TO OUTGOING COACH
“While we would have liked José to extend his stay with us, at the same time, we fully respect his decision. We are grateful for everything he has done for the club,” chairman Dr. Irvin Khoza was quoted by the club’s website.
“The achievements of the intervening years speak for themselves. The joy that José and his support staff have brought to this Club will never be forgotten.
“The club’s immediate priority will be two-fold. Firstly, in keeping with his wishes, we will find the appropriate time to fully express our appreciation of José and his contribution to the club, but secondly, for the football department to begin the extensive exercise of finding a suitable replacement ahead of the 2025/26 season.
“We appreciate the three years of service that José has given this institution and fully support his decision. Wherever his journey takes him, he must know that the Orlando Pirates family will always be behind him.”
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