Jose Riveiro, who has achieved significant success in the South African League, is now reportedly very close to joining a new team.
Following Orlando Pirates’ elimination from the Nedbank Cup, the club has granted the Spanish coach permission for an early departure. This was the first time Riveiro had lost a final in his career.
CLUB CONFIRMS DEPARTURE
Pirates issued an official statement confirming his exit:
“Orlando Pirates can confirm that head coach Jose Riveiro will be on the bench for the final time when the team hosts Golden Arrows on Tuesday evening.”
“The club has granted coach Riveiro an early release from his contract, which was originally set to run until the end of June 2025.”
Club chairman Irvin Khoza also confirmed the termination:
“Jose approached us a few weeks ago with a request to be released from his contract ahead of schedule, having signed with a new club,”
“Given the timing, amid a series of crucial fixtures, we believed it was best to delay this announcement until after the Nedbank Cup final.”
“His contribution since joining the club has been immense. We learned a lot from him, and he learned a lot from us. While we would have preferred to give him a proper send-off, we fully respect his decision to leave early.”
SPANISH COACH THANKS THE CLUB FOR EVERYTHING
In response, coach Riveiro expressed his gratitude to the club:
“I want to express my sincere appreciation to Orlando Pirates for allowing me the opportunity to leave before the end of my contract. Goodbyes have always been difficult for me, and this is a particularly emotional moment,”
“I am deeply grateful to everyone at the club – from management and technical staff to the players and all the individuals behind the scenes who work tirelessly for the team.”
The Spanish tactician is widely rumored to be joining Egypt’s football powerhouse, Al Ahly.
In his absence, assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi will take over the head coaching responsibilities at Orlando Pirates.