Riveiro rules out SA return as coach weighs options after Al Ahly exit

JOSE Riveiro is weighing up his options after being dismissed by Al Ahly following just seven games in charge of the Egyptian giants.

The Spaniard, who left a strong legacy at Orlando Pirates, is expected to continue his career elsewhere on the continent, with Algeria emerging as a possible destination.

No return to South Africa

Riveiro has already ruled out returning to the Premier Soccer League. In his farewell to Orlando Pirates, he pledged his loyalty to the club and vowed never to coach another team in South Africa.

“Once (a Pirate), Always (a Pirate). I will never coach any other team in South Africa. I am a Buccaneer. Orlando Pirates are the only club where I could have the motivation, the courage, the energy, and the heart to coach in the country,” he said back in May.

Reports in North Africa suggest Algeria could provide Riveiro with a new start, closer to his family in Spain. The move would give him a chance to rebuild his reputation after the turbulent stint in Cairo.

Claims of interference at Al Ahly

His departure from Al Ahly has stirred debate in Egypt. Former player Reda Abdel Aal, who represented the club between 1993 and 1998, believes Riveiro was not given a fair chance.

"For me, Riveiro was wronged at Al Ahly because he wasn't working on his own terms; he was putting in the line-up that certain people wanted, not what he wanted," Reda said, as quoted by KickOff.

"The evidence that he was being imposed upon by others is that the player El-Shenawy was forced into the line-up.

"Yes, Riveiro is technically lacking, but for me, he was wronged."

Next chapter

For now, Riveiro faces a decision that could shape the next stage of his coaching career. Whether Algeria becomes his next stop or another opportunity arises, his track record in South Africa ensures his name continues to hold weight in African football.