Former Kaizer Chiefs attacker 'NOT surprised' by Jose Riveiro's exit but insists 'Orlando Pirates are to blame' - 'He was panicking'

Recently, Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro dropped a bombshell that he will not serve the club beyond this season.

The Spaniard has been with the Soweto giants since the 2022-23 campaign.

Many supporters and the majority of South Africans expected him to stay, but the tactician had other ideas.

However, former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye is not surprised by the news. He has explained why he expected the changes.

“I’m not surprised at all; First of all, let me compliment the guy [Riveiro]. The guy, I think he’s the first coach after a while to challenge Mamelodi Sundowns. Very, very strong team – I’m talking about Sundowns," he told iDiski Times.

“Challenging Sundowns with youngsters, under 20 players, I’m referring to [Mohau] Nkota, Relebohile Mofokeng also [Patrick] ‘Tito’ Maswanganyi, Thalente Mbatha. The age of all these players to challenge, well done to the coach. The guy has done well for himself.

“Also, the identity how Pirates is supposed to play, attacking-minded team. They were very exciting to watch. Very skilful team as well. They win in style couple of games.

“Also, the guy this season, was sitting on number one I think first round of the season with these boys, it’s not easy," Khanye continued.

“And Pirates, well done to the coach, they are not spending like Sundowns how they spent, but the guy was able to challenge Sundowns without spending too much.

“The reason why I say I’m not surprised [with Riveiro’s exit], this guy had the chance to win the league this year.

“He was sitting at number one I think first round of the season. Let it go second round of the season. It’s not finished but look at the gap.

“Pirates are themselves to blame. As a coach, I think he was panicking second round of the season," the former winger concluded.

During his stay at Pirates, Riveiro has helped the Buccaneers to bigger heights.

Since he was appointed Bucs coach, Riveiro has won five major titles and helped his side to a second-place finish in the Premier Soccer League for as many campaigns.

However, it is this season that he has managed to help Pirates reach the Caf Champions League quarter-final, hoping they will go all the way.

The Sea Robbers are also in the Nedbank Cup semi-final and on course to challenge Mamelodi Sundowns for the league crown.

It is interesting to see how the announcement will affect the Sea Robbers for the remainder of the season.

However, the bigger picture will be on who the club will choose to succeed the Spaniard.