Amir Abdou Linked to Betway Premiership as Orlando Pirates Confirm Riveiro Exit
With Orlando Pirates confirming the early departure of head coach Jose Riveiro, attention has swiftly turned to potential successors — and one name rapidly gaining traction is that of respected African tactician Amir Abdou, who is currently in South Africa and reportedly open to taking up a role in the Betway Premiership.
On Monday morning, the Buccaneers officially announced that Riveiro will oversee his final game in charge on Tuesday evening against Golden Arrows at Orlando Stadium. The Spaniard’s contract was originally due to run until June 2025, but both parties have agreed to an early termination, signaling a significant shake-up in the club’s technical setup.
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While Orlando Pirates have yet to confirm any replacement, sources close to the situation have told the Siya crew that Amir Abdou — a coach with a proven track record at international level — has landed in South Africa and is not ruling out a move to the PSL.
“Amir Abdou, who is one of the top coaches in Africa, is in South Africa. Yes, the coach landed a few days ago,” a well-placed source confirmed. “We all know his pedigree. He has made history both with Comoros and Mauritania at AFCON. His CV speaks volumes, and it’s encouraging to see highly-rated coaches like him exploring opportunities here.”
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A Strong African CV
Abdou’s coaching journey is one of African football’s most remarkable success stories. The Comoros-born tactician holds a UEFA Pro License and is best known for guiding Comoros to their historic first-ever qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations in 2021. That campaign included a famous win over Ghana and a Round of 16 finish — a feat that catapulted Abdou into the continental spotlight.
He later took the reins of Mauritania, where he once again achieved AFCON qualification in 2023, reinforcing his reputation as a coach capable of exceeding expectations with limited resources.
Key achievements on Amir Abdou’s coaching résumé include:
- Over 100 international matches managed
- Ranked among CAF’s Top 10 African Coaches in 2021, 2022, and 2023
- AFCON qualifications with both Comoros and Mauritania
- UEFA Pro License holder
- Proficient in multiple languages and skilled in multicultural team environments
- Known for defensive organisation, team chemistry, and tactical flexibility
Open to PSL Move
While it remains unclear whether Pirates have made contact with Abdou, his presence in the country amid a coaching vacancy in Soweto — as well as ongoing speculation around clubs like SuperSport United, Cape Town City, and Marumo Gallants — makes his visit particularly noteworthy.
“Discussions are ongoing with a few clubs. Offers have been tabled, but no final decision has been made. The coach is evaluating his options,” the source added.
What’s Next for Pirates and Abdou?
As Pirates prepare to close the Riveiro chapter, the timing of Abdou’s arrival raises the possibility of a major appointment. Though no official talks between the two parties have been confirmed, his track record and coaching profile fit the bill for a club seeking fresh ideas and continental pedigree.
Whether Amir Abdou ends up at Orlando Pirates or elsewhere in the PSL, his presence in South Africa is a strong signal that elite African coaching talent is increasingly looking toward the Betway Premiership as a fertile ground for career growth and impact.
With the off-season approaching and clubs preparing for a new campaign, Abdou is undoubtedly a name to watch.
