Departing Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has opened up on his relationship with the Buccaneers chairman Irvin Khoza during his three-year stint at the club.
At the beginning of April this year, the Soweto giants announced that the Spanish mentor will be leaving the side after deciding against renewing his stay at the Sea Robbers.
Riveiro joined Pirates in 2022 and guided the ‘Happy People’ to five trophy triumphs. This includes three MTN8 titles and two Nedbank Cup silverware.
In addition, he recently led Pirates to the semi-finals of the CAF Champions League, where they succumbed to a 3-2 defeat on aggregate to Egyptian side Pyramids FC.
The 49-year-old was in charge of Pirates for the last time against Golden Arrows in their Betway Premiership clash at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday night, where he received a heartwarming send-off.
Pirates players made sure they gave Riveiro a perfect send-off as they secured a 3-0 win over Abafana Bes’thende, thanks to goals by Tshegofatso Mabasa, Bandile Shandu, and Kabelo Dlamini.
WHAT JOSE RIVEIRO SAID ABOUT ORLANDO PIRATES BOSS IRVIN KHOZA
Riveiro, who is heavily linked with a move to Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly, stated that the Pirates chairman made his stay at the club a memorable one.
He went on to reveal that he had an open relationship with the club’s management, which made things easier for him.
“I don’t think it’s about me saying something. Recently, with the whole management of the club, I think we have managed to establish an open and honest relationship over the last three years I have been here,” said Riveiro.
“The chairman has really taken care of me. He genuinely cares about my future, and what he is doing is generous and fair to me during my time here at Pirates and with my service.
“They have been taking care of me since day one, and they continue to do so now that I’m leaving. I am a thankful person, and I appreciate this; it is something I will never forget and something that makes me feel very comfortable and happy about them.”
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