by Dzudzie Faith Netshisaulu
José Riveiro will be stepping down from his position as Head Coach of Orlando Pirates at the end of the season, the club announced in a statement on Thursday.
According to the statement, Riveiro informed the club’s 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.
“While we would have liked José to extend his stay with us, at the same time, we fully respect his decision. We are grateful for everything he has done for the Club.
“The achievements of the intervening years speak for themselves. The joy that José and his support staff have brought to this Club will never be forgotten,” stated Chairman Dr. Irvin Khoza in the statement.
The club added that, Riveiro’s 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.
“The Club’s immediate priority will be two-fold. Firstly, in keeping with his wishes, we will find the appropriate time to fully express our appreciation of José and his contribution to the Club but secondly, for the football department to begin the extensive exercise of finding a suitable replacement ahead of the 2025/26 season.
“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.”
The Buccaneers are in the semifinals of the Nedbank Cup, which they have won twice in a row under Riveiro. They are also in the quarterfinals of the CAF Champions League, they host MC Alger on Wednesday, 09 April 2025 at the Orlando Stadium. Kick-off is at 6pm, SAT.
In domestic football, the Buccaneers are set to host Marumo Gallants in the Nedbank Cup semi-final match on Sunday the 13th of April, at the Orlando Stadium at 15:00pm.
