José Riveiro has spoken publicly for the first time about his departure from Orlando Pirates, addressing speculation surrounding the reasons for his move to Egyptian giants Al Ahly.
Currently in the United States with his new team, the Spanish coach has firmly denied reports that his decision was influenced by personal or family-related issues.
Since his unexpected exit from the South African club, several media outlets had suggested that homesickness and the desire to be closer to his family prompted Riveiro’s resignation.
However, the 48-year-old tactician has clarified that such claims are inaccurate and do not reflect his motivations.
“I never said I was leaving because of the distance, family problems, or other things like that,” Riveiro stated in a recent interview.
“I think it’s also positive for the Pirates to continue in a different way, to try to find another challenge, and for the club to find someone to continue the journey, to take the team to a higher level.”
Riveiro explained that his decision was based purely on professional ambition and the desire to grow further in his managerial career.
After a successful spell in South Africa, he viewed the offer from Al Ahly as a timely and promising opportunity to test himself on a broader stage.
“For me, it was about finding a place where I can continue my coaching development with the chance to challenge myself in a different environment,” he continued.
“Al Ahly is also a club that gives you the opportunity to continue growing and winning, and I think this is a good step for me.”
The Spanish manager enjoyed a productive tenure with Orlando Pirates, helping to restore the club’s competitive edge in the South African Premier Division.
His tactical discipline and leadership were widely credited with revitalising the team’s playing style, and his departure came as a surprise to many within South African football circles.
Despite the media speculation, Riveiro made it clear that his relationship with the Pirates’ management and supporters remains respectful and intact.
His departure, he says, was made with the mutual understanding that both he and the club could benefit from a fresh direction.
Riveiro’s move to Al Ahly marks a significant progression in his coaching career. The Cairo-based club is one of Africa’s most successful and storied football institutions, regularly competing at the highest level in continental competitions.
It offers the Spaniard the platform to further enhance his reputation and achieve silverware in a new competitive setting.
As he begins this new chapter, Riveiro appears focused and motivated by the fresh challenges that lie ahead. With Al Ahly currently preparing for a demanding fixture calendar and ongoing international tournaments, he will be tested from the outset.
While Orlando Pirates have yet to appoint a permanent successor, the club is expected to announce a new head coach in the coming weeks as they aim to build on the foundation left by Riveiro.
For now, the Spanish manager has put to rest any lingering questions about his motives, reaffirming that his decision was rooted in ambition, not emotion.
