Jose dumps Bucs! Riveiro to take charge of final match as Orlando Pirates coach against Golden Arrows after requesting early release from contract

Orlando Pirates have officially announced the early departure of head coach Jose Riveiro.

His final match in charge will be the fixture against Golden Arrows on Tuesday evening.

Riveiro requested an early release from his contract, originally set to run until June 2025.

The club granted his request following his agreement with a new team.

Pirates chairman Dr. Irvin Khoza confirmed that the decision to delay the announcement was strategic, due to the Nedbank Cup final.

Riveiro leaves the club having made a significant impact, both in results and legacy.

He guided the team to multiple trophies and strengthened its football identity.

While the club would have preferred a formal send-off, they respect his decision and part ways amicably.

In a statement released by the club, Bucs Chairman Dr. Irvin Khoza said, “Jose approached us a few weeks ago with a request to be released from his contract ahead of schedule, having signed with a new club. Given the timing—amidst a series of crucial fixtures—we believed it was best to delay this announcement until after the Nedbank Cup final. His contribution since joining the club has been immense. We learned a lot from him, and he learned a lot from us. While we would have preferred to formally honour him with a proper send-off, we fully respect his decision to depart before the end of his tenure.”

Riveiro’s departure signals the end of a successful era for Pirates.

Under his leadership, the club regained its competitive edge and added more silverware to its illustrious history.

His coaching style introduced new tactical dimensions and improved squad depth.

Riveiro also played a key role in promoting young talent, giving a platform to promising players like Relebohile Mofokeng, Mohau Nkota, and Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who all went on to make their mark in the first team.

“I want to express my sincere appreciation to Orlando Pirates for allowing me the opportunity to leave before the end of my contract," said Riveiro, as per Bucs' website.

"As someone who has never found goodbyes easy, this moment is particularly emotional for me. I am deeply grateful to everyone at the Club – from management and technical staff to the players and the many individuals behind the scenes who work tirelessly to support the team.

“To the players, thank you for believing in the journey we shared and for giving everything on the pitch. And to the supporters. When I first arrived, I challenged you to come out in your numbers and rally behind your team. You did that, and more. You turned every match into a moment to remember, and your passion is something I will carry with me forever.

“Thank you for allowing me to be part of this great club’s story.”

Assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi will take over interim coaching duties for the remainder of the season, with support from Head Performance Analyst Rayaan Jacobs and the rest of the technical team.

The club plans to begin its search for a permanent head coach in due course, but for now, the focus is on finishing the season strongly and securing a spot in continental competitions.

With five games remaining, Pirates are playing catch-up to Mamelodi Sundowns, who only need one point to seal the league title. Riveiro’s final game in charge will be against Golden Arrows.