With Jose Riveiro’s contract set to expire at the end of the current season, former Orlando Pirates assistant coach and club legend, Teboho Moloi, has shared his thoughts on the tactician’s decision to step down.
On Thursday afternoon, the Soweto giants confirmed that the Spanish mentor notified the Pirates’ hierarchy of his choice not to extend his stay when the season concludes. The 49-year-old’s contract at the Sea Robbers expires in June 2025, having joined them in July 2022.
So far, Riveiro has won five silverware, including two Nedbank Cup titles and three MTN8 trophies. In addition, he led Pirates to a second-place finish in the Premiership twice, behind Mamelodi Sundowns.
Despite his impending departure, Riveiro still has the chance to add to his trophy haul. Pirates remain competitive in the Nedbank Cup, where they’ve reached the semifinals, the CAF Champions League, where they’re in the quarterfinals, and are still within reach of the Betway Premiership title.
TEBOHO MOLOI ON JOSE RIVEIRO LEAVING ORLANDO PIRATES WHEN HIS CONTRACT EXPIRES
Moloi expressed his astonishment at Pirates’ announcement, stating it was unexpected and caught him by surprise, particularly considering the level of success Riveiro has achieved since taking charge of the club.
“It came as a shock and surprise for me. I will be honest, I didn’t see it coming because of what he has built and how he integrated himself into the history that goes with the team,” said Moloi on Radio 2000.
“You know, I always hear everybody saying that he has introduced youngsters and given them a chance. But if you follow the history of the club, you will understand that youngsters have been the cornerstone of the team since the days of Ace Khuse before he went to Kaizer Chiefs.
“For me, I still don’t know how to come to terms with it. If you are a good follower of Orlando Pirates, history will always tell you that all the good coaches somehow end up leaving. Coaches like Tony Sanderson, Ruud Krol, and Gordon Igesund. This is one ship [Orlando Pirates] that has seen it all.”
Moloi continued: “As much as I’m shocked, I still have hope, and I know the ship is in the steady waters, but it will still sail.”
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