Jose Riveiro has officially ended his tenure at Orlando Pirates, concluding a three-year period he describes as a “game changer” for his life.
The 47-year-old coach, who took the reins in July 2022, guided the Soweto giants through a challenging yet title-less spell in the South African top flight.
In his final match on Tuesday at Orlando Stadium, the Pirates delivered a dominant 3-0 victory over Golden Arrows, securing second place in the league for the third consecutive season.
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The club marked the occasion with a heartfelt farewell for Riveiro, acknowledging his impact and professionalism throughout his tenure.
Although a league title eluded the Spaniard, his contribution was evident in the team’s consistency and style of play.
“I would change nothing. There are no regrets. We put in everything we had every day,” said Riveiro.
“Personally, it’s not about the medals. I think I can say that I’m a better person than three years ago. I had opportunities to learn about different realities and cultures, and that’s something that enriches us as people.
“Yes, that [winning cups] is important, otherwise probably I’m not going to be here sitting after three years, it’s important to collect trophies, to win games, to improve the team… it goes without saying but, in the end, for me it’s about being here for three years in this club, in this context, in this country, is a game-charger.
“When I say my life is no longer [the same] it is because I came here with a certain mindset. I’m leaving with a totally different one, not a full capacity but some capacity to look at life with your eyes [as Africans], not only with my eyes, and it changes a lot…the way of thinking.”
As speculation swirls around a potential move to Egyptian giants Al Ahly, the Pirates have confirmed that assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi will take charge of the final four matches of the season.
He will be supported by Head Performance Analyst Rayaan Jacobs as the club begins its search for a new permanent manager.