José Riveiro has announced his decision to step down as Head Coach at the end of the season.
Goodbyes are never easy. They tug at the heart, reminding us of the moments we wish could last forever. But in football, as in life, they are sometimes necessary.
When Coach José arrived in 2022, he didn’t just take charge of a team, he mended broken spirits, reignited lost hope.
Coming out of the 2021/22 season the Buccaneers had finished 6th in the league with only 10 wins from the 30 matches; a first-round exit in the MTN8 to Swallows as well as a defeat to Marumo Gallants in the Round of 16 of the Nedbank Cup.
Football has a propensity to judge people too quickly and naturally an unknown José would be scrutinised before even setting foot on South African soil. However, the 47-year-old has since made believers out of doubters.
He has given the Pirates supporters more than just victories; he gave them a reason to dream again. And now, as the end of the season draws near, so does the reality that this incredible chapter is coming to a close.
But the story isn’t over yet. There are still games to be played, memories to make, and moments to cherish.
Speaking to Orlandopiratesfc.com, Riveiro said: “My priority right now is on our upcoming match against Polokwane City. This is a tough match. A match that needs our undivided attention and focus.
“The time will come for me to express myself on the decision I have made but now isn’t that time because we have a job to do. The season is far from over and we have a lot of work to do between now and the end of May.
“Obviously, in an ideal world, one would have wanted to hold on making any statements until the end of the season but it’s not possible. The club needs to plan for its future and it’s only fair that they are given time to do so.”
After Tuesday’s gruelling clash against MC Alger in the first leg of the CAF Champions League quarterfinals in Algiers, the Buccaneers – who arrive back in SA this morning, will travel to Limpopo to prepare for their Betway Premiership clash against Rise and Shine which will be played at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium this Saturday.
