‘Orlando Pirates is a way of life’ says José Riveiro in emotional final farewell after Golden Arrows win
Betway Premiership
FINAL FAREWELL José Riveiro bids an emotional farewell to Orlando Pirates, reflecting on his transformative journey, deep connection with the club, and legacy of success including four cup titles since 2022. Picture: Itumeleng English/Independent Media
Image: Itumeleng English/Independent Media
The fact that Orlando Pirates beat Golden Arrows 3-0 in their Betway Premiership clash on Tuesday evening seemed to matter little, as coach José Riveiro made his final appearance with the club.
Riveiro has been released early from his contract, as Mamelodi Sundowns are set to be crowned champions for the eighth season in a row on Wednesday if they earn a point or more in their midweek fixture against Chippa United.
It means Riveiro leaves Pirates with two runner-up finishes in the league, and a third on the way as this season draws to a close. Riveiro also won four cup titles with the Soweto Giants.
Even a loss in the Nedbank Cup final to eternal rivals Kaizer Chiefs over the weekend, did not seem to sour Riveiro’s legacy at all.
Riveiro Reflects on Deep Connection with Pirates
“It's not about trophies, not about victories, not about goals. It's not only about good football. It’s about being identified with the vision of the club and I think the future is looking so good for the team, for the fans and for everybody in general,” Riveiro told SuperSport after the victory over Arrows at Orlando Stadium
“[It’s been about] Much more responsibility obviously. This is a big institution. It’s a movement, it’s a way of life.”
With Riveiro having achieved so much with Pirates since joining in 2022, it was a moment of pride looking back.
“I'm a football coach. It’s not frequent that a head coach is leaving a club the way that I am.
“It's something to be proud of. My time at Pirates is a life changer. It’s something else; I cannot describe the way I feel with these boys, with the fans, with everything around the club.
“I love them as well. It's been a very close relationship wherever we go.”
From 'The Plumber' to One of SA Football's Most Successful Coaches
When Riveiro first joined Pirates, he was nicknamed ‘The Plumber’ since no one in local football really knew about him. A few years later, he leaves SA football as one of the most successful coaches over such a short period.
“It's not only about 90 minutes. The responsibility is with my boys, with the players, knowing that I have to be there.
“You have to be there every day for them and trying to help them in whatever they need.
“I came here from an unknown league. I'm somebody else right now because of the fans, because of the people who are following [SA] football.”
According to reports, Riveiro is moving to Egyptian giants Al Ahly, and he will be confirmed as the new coach soon.