Orlando Pirates bid farewell to coach Jose Riveiro as he depart club at the end of the season

South African giants Orlando Pirates have confirmed coach Jose Riveiro will depart the club at the end of the current season.

Riveiro joined the South African outfit in 2021, signing a three-year deal with the club. Since, joining the Buccaneers, the Spanish trainer achieved numerous laurels with the side.

With his contract set to expire at the end of the campaign, the Spanish gaffer has decided to depart the club for a new challenge.

However, the club in a statement has extended gratitude to the Riveiro for his contribution to the club.

“We would have liked for Jose to extend his stay with us, but at the same time, we fully respect his decision. We are grateful to him for everything he has done for the club. The achievements of the past years speak for themselves. The joy that Jose and his assistants have brought to the club will never be forgotten”

“In the near future, the club will tackle two tasks. First, in accordance with his wishes, we will find a suitable time to fully express our appreciation for Jose and his contribution to the club’s development, and second, for the football department to begin extensive work in finding a suitable replacement ahead of the 2025/26 season”

“We cherish the three years Jose has worked at the club and fully support his decision. Wherever his path may lead him, he should know that the Orlando Pirates family will always be behind him.”

Currently, Orlando Pirates sit second in the South African Premier League table and are also in the semifinals of the national cup.

Moreover, the team is on the verge of reaching the semifinals of the CAF Champions League after securing an important 1-0 victory over MS Alger in the first leg of the quarterfinals.

However, these successes did not convince Riveiro to extend his contract with the club, which expires in the summer of 2025.