Jose Riveiro leaving Orlando Pirates

Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro will be stepping down from his position at the end of the season. Riveiro has informed the Pirates 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.

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In a long statement issued by the club on Thursday, club Chairman Dr Irvin Khoza said they fully understand Riveiro’s decision to leave, despite their intentions to extend beyond the season.

“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,” said Dr Khoza.

“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.

“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,” he said.

ORLANDO PIRATES BID FAREWELL TO JOSE RIVEIRO AFTER THE ANNOUNCEMENT THAT HE WOULD BE STEPPING DOWN

“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.”

“His 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.”

During his tenure at the club, Riveiro won three MTN8 Cups, Nedbank Cup and was runners-up twice in the Betway Premiership to Mamelodi Sundowns.