Why Orlando Pirates fans should not be sad that Jose Riveiro is leaving - Bucs boss leaves a legacy with PSL giants as Soweto Derby looms in the PSL & Nedbank Cup final

Pirates' search for a new head coach has sparked excitement, with links to high-profile names like Mosimane and Mokwena making headlines. Mosimane - a front runner - is the most successful coach in PSL history with five league titles. 'Jingles' is a seasoned tactician who famously transformed Sundowns into a continental powerhouse, even lifting the Champions League.

His track record of building winning teams and his deep understanding of African football would undoubtedly inject hope and belief into the Pirates faithful. Meanwhile, Mokwena - who recently parted ways with Wydad Casablanca - is also strongly tipped for a return. With unfinished business at Pirates, his potential comeback carries a narrative of redemption and ambition. As the coaching shortlist shapes up, fans are left eager to see whether it will be Mosimane, Mokwena, or another top-tier manager leading the Buccaneers into a new era. Here's a list of potential replacements for Riveiro.

When Riveiro first set foot in South Africa, he was mockingly dismissed as a "plumber" - an unknown figure met with scepticism and doubt. But the Spaniard quickly silenced his critics, proving himself to be one of the sharpest minds in the PSL. In his first two seasons, he’s delivered silverware with precision, lifting two trophies in each campaign.

This season alone, Riveiro has already secured the MTN8 title and guided Pirates to the Nedbank Cup final, putting him on the brink of yet another triumphant chapter. Under his leadership, the Buccaneers have enjoyed a golden run of cup success - a streak of dominance that has brought joy to their fans and eased the sting of finishing behind Sundowns in the league. If he adds another trophy to his cabinet, Riveiro will not only walk away a proud and successful coach, but also a transformative figure who restored glory to the Buccaneers.

Traditionally, Pirates haven’t been known for nurturing young talent in the modern era, with standout names like Mbulelo Mabizela and Lebohang Mokoena being past references. Unlike rivals Sundowns, who make headlines with blockbuster transfers, Pirates have often taken a more measured approach in the market. Under Riveiro, a refreshing shift has taken place.

The coach has made youth development a priority, crafting a well-balanced squad that blends raw potential with seasoned experience. Rising stars such as Relebohile Mofokeng, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Thabiso Sesane, and Mohau Nkota aren’t just filling up the bench - they’re stepping up as key contributors on the pitch. It’s a new era of promise for the Buccaneers, and fans have every reason to be excited about the club’s growing commitment to homegrown talent.

While Masandawana continue to reign supreme in the Premiership, Riveiro’s Pirates have quietly been narrowing the gap - and building serious momentum. Though the Sea Robbers are still chasing that elusive league title, last won in the 2011/12 season, their progress under Riveiro is undeniable. In his first season (2022/23), the Buccaneers finished 16 points behind Sundowns.

The following campaign saw them come second again, this time trailing by 23 points. Yet in the current season, that margin is expected to shrink further, signalling steady growth and renewed ambition. While Downs remain the undisputed kings of the league, even they would admit that Riveiro's Pirates have posed a growing threat. And as the Spanish coach prepares to bid farewell, he leaves behind a squad hungry for league glory and well-positioned to launch a serious challenge in the seasons to come.

After falling short in the Champions League semifinals and with the league title now out of reach, Pirates still have two massive fixtures to ignite their season’s end. First up is the iconic Soweto Derby against fierce rivals Chiefs on May 3 - a clash where pride, bragging rights, and history take centre stage. As expected, it's already a sold-out affair, with fans set to pack the stadium in anticipation of another thrilling chapter in South Africa’s greatest football rivalry. For Riveiro, it's a golden opportunity to complete a league double over Chiefs and build momentum ahead of an even bigger showdown.

The two giants are set to meet again in the Nedbank Cup final at Moses Mabhida Stadium - a match loaded with significance, and Amakhosi mentor Nasreddine Nabi has issued a warning to his counterparts. For Chiefs, it's their last shot at silverware this season; for Riveiro, it's a final parting statement, as he looks to uphold his tradition of lifting two trophies per campaign before bidding farewell. All eyes will be on Soweto - twice.

Pirates latest news

PSL latest news

PSL log standings