Ahly fans hope Jose Riveiro can follow Pitso Mosimane’s winning formula

Al Ahly supporters reportedly see former Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro as a potential successor to the success achieved by Pitso Mosimane after the Spanish coach emerged as the expected new manager of the Egyptian giants.

Riveiro, 49, left Orlando Pirates on Tuesday shortly after the club recorded a 3-0 Betway Premiership victory over Golden Arrows. He is now expected to take charge of Ahly, with the club looking to give the side a positive direction ahead of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

Although his appointment has yet to be formally announced, Egyptian publication Matnnews has reported that some Ahly supporters believe Riveiro could become a “new” Mosimane at the Cairo-based club.

The comparison is based on both coaches’ achievements and their recent records. Riveiro has won five cup competitions during his time with Orlando Pirates and guided the Buccaneers to the semi-finals of the Champions League this season.

Those accomplishments have led sections of the Ahly support to believe he could reproduce some of the success Mosimane delivered during his spell in Egypt.

Mosimane joined Ahly in 2020 after leaving Mamelodi Sundowns, where he had spent eight successful years. His move to Cairo was followed by an impressive two-year period in charge of the Egyptian powerhouse.

During that time, the former Bafana Bafana head coach won two CAF Super Cups, one Egyptian Premier League title and two Champions League trophies. His tenure established a high benchmark for any coach taking over at Ahly.

Riveiro’s expected arrival therefore comes with considerable expectations. His work at Orlando Pirates, including the club’s run to the Champions League semi-finals and his five cup victories, has strengthened the belief among some Ahly fans that he has the credentials to succeed at one of Africa’s most prominent clubs.

The Spanish coach’s departure from Orlando Pirates came after the team’s comprehensive win over Golden Arrows, bringing his spell with the Buccaneers to an end. Attention has now turned to whether he will be confirmed as Ahly’s next coach and tasked with preparing the team for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

For supporters drawing parallels with Mosimane, the hope is that Riveiro’s record in knockout competitions can translate into major silverware in Egypt. Mosimane’s achievements, particularly his two CAF Champions League titles and Egyptian Premier League championship, remain the reference point against which Riveiro’s prospective tenure will be judged.