Just days after parting ways with Soweto giants Orlando Pirates as their head coach, Jose Riveiro is on the cusp of finalizing a move to Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly.
Reports indicate that the 49-year-old Spanish tactician is poised to sign a lucrative two-year contract with the Cairo-based club, a deal that would reportedly make him the highest-paid coach on the African continent.
Read: Jose Riveiro has ‘no regrets’ about his ‘life-changing’ time at Orlando Pirates
Riveiro’s impending appointment at the helm of the revered Red Devils comes on the heels of a successful three-year tenure with South African giants Orlando Pirates.
During his time with the Soweto club, the Spaniard cultivated a winning mentality and delivered a consistent stream of silverware, endearing himself to the Buccaneers’ faithful.
The timing of Riveiro’s move has been expedited following his final match in charge of Orlando Pirates – a convincing 3-0 victory over Golden Arrows in the Betway Premiership on Tuesday.
While his departure was initially anticipated at the conclusion of the current season, Al Ahly’s reportedly substantial offer prompted the Sea Robbers to agree to an early release for their highly-rated coach.
According to prominent African football journalist Micky Jnr, this high-profile acquisition underscores Al Ahly’s unwavering ambition to maintain their dominance in African club football and serves as a resounding statement of intent from the Egyptian champions.
The club, renowned for its rich history and unparalleled success on the continental stage, is clearly investing heavily to ensure its continued reign.
Riveiro’s legacy at Orlando Pirates is firmly cemented by the five major trophies he delivered during his three seasons in charge. This impressive haul includes an unprecedented three consecutive MTN 8 titles, showcasing his ability to consistently guide the team to domestic cup success.
While his tenure concluded with a bittersweet note – falling just short of a third successive Nedbank Cup triumph after a narrow 2-1 defeat to arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs in the final – his overall impact on the club is undeniable. He brought a period of stability and consistent trophy contention to the Buccaneers.
Al Ahly, widely acknowledged as Africa’s most decorated football club, boasts a staggering array of continental titles and will be hoping that Riveiro’s tactical acumen and proven track record of winning can further enhance their already formidable legacy.
The Egyptian giants will look to Riveiro to build upon their existing success and continue their dominance in both domestic and continental competitions.
Meanwhile, Orlando Pirates now face the task of embarking on a new chapter without the guidance of their influential Spanish tactician.
Riveiro’s impact on the Soweto giants will be fondly remembered not only for the tangible silverware he brought to the club but also for the sense of stability and clear tactical direction he instilled within the team.
The Buccaneers will undoubtedly be searching for a worthy successor to build upon the foundation laid by the departing Spaniard.
The football fraternity across Africa will be keenly observing Riveiro’s next steps as he takes on the challenge of leading one of the continent’s most prestigious clubs.
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