With José Riveiro replacing Mandla Ncikazi as head coach at Orlando Pirates, iDiski Times takes a look at their new-look technical team which includes a former Simba SC coach.
The Spaniard was confirmed by Pirates as the sole head coach ahead of the 2022/23 campaign as Ncikazi dropped down as the assistant alongside Sergio Almenara, who has worked with Riveiro since January 2019 during his time in Finland at FC Inter Turku.
Almenara, who is a UEFA A License holder also worked as a video analyst for FC Honka prior to his stint with Inter and doubled up as the reserve team head coach; the Spaniard has been lauded for his role in youth development having served as the academy manager for second-tier Finnish side Pallokerho-35.
While Ncikazi’s experience in the South African top-flight is extensive, dating back for over a decade, he’s been retained as one of the assistants, seemingly to provide his insight to the local game and current squad, having worked alongside Fadlu Davids in the past season that saw them finish runners up in the CAF Confederation Cup.
Miguel Bellver Esteve, the incoming fitness trainer, was also part of Riveiro’s coaching staff in Finland and holds over a decade of experience in the academy of Valencia in the same role – while also holding a Master’s Degree in Biomedical Sciences and a post-graduate degree at the University of Valencia, specialising in the Prevention and Rehabilitation of Injuries.
Another Bucs Coach Set For Exit
But one of the more familiar names is Tyron Damons, he returns to the DStv Premiership after a season in the Liga Kuu Bara with Simba, where he gained extensive experience in East Africa whilst also competing with the club in the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup.
Damons previously held stints in South Africa with TS Galaxy and the now-defunct Bidvest Wits over the last eight years after retiring at the Students back in 2013. He also represented Dynamos, Swallows, Winners Park and Vasco da Gama and Bloemfontein Celtic over his playing days.
Riveiro Well Respected In Finland
