José Riveiro set to part ways with Orlando Pirates after conclusion of current season

In a significant development for high-flying Orlando Pirates, head coach José Riveiro has officially confirmed that he will part ways with the club at the conclusion of the current season. 

Thursday afternoon’s announcement has brought an end to widespread speculation surrounding the future of the coach, whose original three-year contract is due to expire at the end of May.

The announcement follows Riveiro’s decision not to renew his contract beyond its current term. The Spanish coach shared his intention with the club’s management.

The club’s statement read: “His professionalism and commitment to the club’s best interests prompted a timely announcement, ensuring business as usual for the remainder of the season while simultaneously creating an opportunity for the club to prepare for the future.

“In accordance with the coach’s wishes, the club will refrain from making detailed pronouncements at this time, reserving comprehensive tributes for a more appropriate occasion.”

Pirates chairman Irvin Khoza said: “While we would have liked José to extend his stay with us, at the same time, we fully respect his decision. We are grateful for everything he has done for the club.

“The achievements of the intervening years speak for themselves. The joy that José and his support staff have brought to this club will never be forgotten.

“The club’s immediate priority will be twofold. Firstly, in keeping with his wishes, we will find the appropriate time to fully express our appreciation of José and his contribution to the club. But secondly, the football department will begin the extensive exercise of finding a suitable replacement ahead of the 2025/26 season.

“We appreciate the three years of service that José has given this institution and fully support his decision. Wherever his journey takes him, he must know that the Orlando Pirates family will always be behind him.”

Pirates stated that, since the club is playing in three crucial competitions, no further news on this matter will be addressed until the end of the season.