Orlando Pirates’ management finds itself in a challenging position as the season nears its end. The club remains in the hunt for trophies across three different competitions and is a genuine contender for the CAF Champions League title for the first time in 30 years. However, alongside these sporting challenges, the club’s leadership must address the issue of finding a new head coach, as José Riveiro has confirmed he will depart at the end of the season.
Riveiro’s contract, which was signed in 2021 for three years, is set to expire. With the team enjoying considerable success this season, it seemed likely that a contract renewal was on the cards. However, it appears that the decision to part ways was made by Riveiro himself, rather than the club.
In a previous interview, the coach mentioned his preference for not staying in one place for more than three years.
“I don’t think a coach should remain at the same club for more than three years. For me, that’s the maximum, with some exceptions. It really depends on the club’s philosophy and how often the squad is refreshed. In my current context, three years feels like the right time to seek a new challenge,” said Riveiro.
Interestingly, the 47-year-old from Vigo, Spain, has never worked anywhere for more than three years, even in assistant roles, with his coaching journey spanning multiple clubs across various roles:
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1998-2001: Teis (youth)
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2001-2003: Teis
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2003-2006: Mondariz
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2010-2014: Choco (youth)
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2010-2011: Celta Vigo (youth)
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2011-2014: Honka (assistant)
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2014-2015: PK-35 Vantaa (assistant)
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2015-2016: HJK (assistant)
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2016-2018: Inter Turku
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2019-2021: Orlando Pirates
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2022-2024: Orlando Pirates (head coach)
The search for Riveiro’s successor is already underway, according to sources close to the club, although it’s still early to discuss
