MORE UNCERTAINTY Uncertainty surrounds Jose Riveiro's future with Orlando Pirates as his contract nears expiration, sparking speculation about his potential departure despite strong performances and significant achievements with the team. Picture: BackpagePix
Image: Backpagepix
It seems almost unfathomable that Jose Riveiro would leave his position as coach of Orlando Pirates at the end of the current season, but the speculation is that the Spaniard could be on his way out.
Under Riveiro, Pirates have challenged strongly for the Betway Premiership title as Mamelodi Sundowns are still favourites to win their eighth league title in a row. That's in stark contrast to when Riveiro arrived at the club, when Pirates fans dubbed him 'The Plumber' since his credentials and ability as a leader of the Soweto side were questioned.
As it stands, Pirates are 15 points behind Sundowns, but the Soweto Giants have four games in hand.
Since joining Pirates in June 2022, Riveiro has led the club to two runner-up finishes in the league as well as winning two Nedbank Cup and three MTN8 titles.
However, Riveiro’s contract comes to an end in June this year, and there has been no word on the mentor extending his stay at his club, which has fuelled the speculation.
Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi hopes that Riveiro will remain at the club.
"Whether the coach leaves or stays at the end of the current season is anybody's guess at the moment. Working in football is like checking in at a hotel. Others stay for one day, others stay for two days, others stay for a month - but at the end, we all check out!” Ncikazi said on Bucs Camp Documentary.
“I do have my personal wishes; if the project works so well, why should it be spoiled? But let's keep the hopes high and also trust the vision of our management that they will always take the right decision.”