Former Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro is set to make a surprising return to South Africa next week.
The 50-year-old tactician had a successful three-year tenure with the Buccaneers, during which he won five trophies. In his final season, he led the Sea Robbers to the semi-finals of the CAF Champions League, where they narrowly lost to the eventual champions, Pyramids.
According to Soccer Laduma, Riveiro will be among the high-profile guests at the Carling Knockout Cup Campaign Media Update, which will take place next week in Sandton.
“According to the organisers, the Spanish tactician – affectionately known as El Profesor – will join Carling Black Label Brand Director Kerryn Greenleaf and respected football analyst Simphiwe Dludlu at the event, which will give updates on the eagerly awaited 2025 Carling Black Label Cup,” the publication wrote.
Where is Jose Riveiro now?
The Spaniard left Orlando Pirates in May after losing his final as Bucs coach. He then joined Egyptian giants Al Ahly but after a poor showing, he was sacked.
Currently, Riveiro has been without a club but there have been rumours linking him with a possible return to the PSL.
His brief return might raise more speculations in the coming weeks, but he did make a promise to Pirates fans that he will not coach another PSL team again.
Since his departure, the Buccaneers have moved on and appointed Abdeslam Ouaddou as their new head coach. In his first season, it looks like the Moroccan coach might eclipse Riveiro’s legacy if he wins the league this season.
Under the Spaniard, the Buccaneers won three MTN8 titles and two Nedbank cups. Three consecutive second-place finishes meant Riveiro did not completely satisfy the Bucs faithful, who are hungry for another league title and second star.