Earlier in the season, Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro was said to be eyeing a return to Spain amid reports of homesickness.
It’s been almost three years since Riveiro took over the Buccaneers reins, winning the Nedbank Cup twice and the MTN8 Cup in each season – the league title has alluded him however, coming second in both attempts but falling way short of successive champions Mamelodi Sundowns.
Knowing Riveiro’s contract runs out at the end of the season, the club tried to tie the Spanish tactician down for at least another year earlier this season, but the 47-year-old refused to sign, saying he would think about it once the campaign concludes.
An exit is on the cards, but it would be wrong to assume it’s a done deal – Riveiro, who has stated his desire to bring another PSL title to Orlando Pirates, could be tempted to stay if the club fails to win the league this year.
The manager’s family chose to stay in Spain when Soweto came calling; this separation could influence him to leave.
Riveiro speaks after Sundowns loss
Orlando Pirates, who have Mamelodi Sundowns in their sights, were humbled by the league leaders last weekend, losing 4-1 in a Lucas Ribeiro Costa masterclass.
The Spanish-native defended his line-up, saying, “Kabelo was helping us a lot on the ball, always giving us extra time on the ball to get organised. In the second half, he was the one giving us balance in midfield,
“Even in our defence; winning duels, helping centre-backs. Sometimes our eyes [tell us that] Makhaula is more defensive and Kabelo is more offensive, but in this team, everyone is defending when we don’t have the ball and we all try to attack.”
Will Riveiro leave Orlando Pirates in the offseason?
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