Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro has shared huge admiration for new signing ‘Gilberto’ who was swayed to join the Buccaneers from Petro de Luanda.
Pirates announce the signing of Delvi Miguel Vieira on June 28, with Delvi – better known as ‘Gilberto’ – joining the Buccaneers after two seasons at the Angolan Girabola champions.
The Angola international joined Pirates in a deal said to be around R10 million as the club worked tirelessly behind the scenes to beat several continental giants and European outfits to secure the midfielder’s signature.
Angolan media portrayed Gilberto as a colourful character off the pitch who may lack the required professionalism. The Buccaneers coach has since downplayed those accusations and said that the exciting winger has settled in well.
“He’s a young guy, having a big opportunity in a club like Orlando Pirates, but I can tell you he’s settled very well in the group, he’s a very open guy in our group in that sense, he’s really special as well,” Riveiro said.
“He has a lot of things in common with the players, we are all trying to help him to express himself on the field, to try to play in the best of his capacity, but at the same time, trying to make him feel comfortable in the group and it’s something we did very well in my opinion.
“His personality, he’s a… I don’t know which word to use, yes, he’s fun. He has the capacity to attract his mates, to get their attention from the first day, he’s a humble guy.
“I have zero complaints about his behaviour in the three, four weeks he’s been around. So, I think he’s going to be one of our interesting players to follow this season for sure.” Riveiro concluded.
With everything said about Gilberto and his progress since joining his new home, it’s clear to say that the enterprising winger will lift the standards of the Sea Robbers as they seek to compete in every competition this season.
Buccaneers’ fans will be eager to see their new star in action as Gilberto will have the opportunity to make his debut for the club this weekend when Pirates take on Gavin Hunt’s SuperSport United in the MTN8 opener on Saturday at Orlando Stadium.
Written by Marc Strydom.