Jose Riveiro’s response to possibility of coaching Bafana

Jose Riveiro in Carling Knockout Cup event

Former Orlando Pirates and Al Ahly head coach Jose Riveiro has responded to questions on whether he would consider the Bafana Bafana job.

The Spanish tactician is currently unattached after parting ways with Egyptian Premier League side Al Ahly. Riveiro joined the Red Devils in May 2025 after deciding against renewing his contract at Pirates, which was set to expire on the 30th of June 2025.

The 50-year-old spent only three months with Al Ahly before his sacking following an inconsistent start to his tenure at the club.

Before joining the Egyptian giants, Riveiro made a name for himself at Pirates after winning five domestic trophies in three years. He won three MTN8 trophies and two Nedbank Cup titles with the Buccaneers.

With Bafana coach Hugo Broos set to step down after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, SAFA will be on the lookout for a perfect candidate to continue the project.

WHAT JOSE RIVEIRO SAID ABOUT THE BAFANA COACHING JOB

Asked whether he would consider taking the Bafana job, Riveiro admitted that, at the moment, we should focus on the positive work the Belgian mentor has done. However, he didn’t rule out taking the job.

Jose Riveiro during his Orlando Pirates stint
Josรฉ Riveiro. Picture courtesy of Orlando Pirates/X

“I think we have to enjoy the moment. I think South African football is going through a fantastic moment in terms of the domestic competitions,” Riveiro said.

“Bafana is doing well, going to the AFCON with an opportunity to be extremely competitive and qualified for the World Cup. It’s a moment to enjoy. Whatever is happening right now and whatever is going to happen in the future, it belongs to other people.

“As coaches, we must always be ready and available for every proposal and whatever is coming, but that is something that is not in our hands.

“I fully respect Hugo and his technical team; they have been doing a fantastic job in difficult circumstances. Things were not easy for him in the beginning, and he managed to go through all the criticisms and controversial moments to finally have a solid team.”

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