Josè Riveiro bids farewell to the Buccaneers

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Soweto soccer giants Orlando Pirates have confirmed the departure of their current head coach Josè Riveiro having joined the team on June 2022.

The team released the statement late Thursday afternoon confirming speculations that have been doing rounds in the media after a very tough and competitive CAF match this past weekend against MC Alger where they won 0-1.

“Orlando Pirates Football Club can reveal that José Riveiro will be stepping down from his position 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.”

“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.”

The club chairman, Dr Irvin Khoza also said that although would’ve liked to have Riveiro extend his stay in the team, they can not stand in his way and future plans.

“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.”

Riveiro has been one of the most successful coaches in the PSL having had a record 58 wins, 17 draws, and 20 losses in 95 matches, giving him a win ratio of 60% as of October 2024. This ranked him second (alongside Mike Makaab) only to Julio Leal, who achieved a 64% win ratio, albeit from just 28 matches.

The team said they will make further announcements on his replacement in due course.