Jose Riveiro Attracts Global Interest Amid Pirates Exit

Following Orlando Pirates’ confirmation that head coach Jose Riveiro will not renew his contract at the end of the season, multiple teams have expressed interest in securing his services. The Siya crew has been informed of additional clubs and national teams closely monitoring the Spaniard’s situation.

Previously, Soccer Laduma reported that Riveiro was linked to the national teams of Morocco, Finland, and Sweden. Now, it has emerged that a Saudi Arabian club is also keeping tabs on him, according to sources privy to the ongoing developments.

Wydad Casablanca Showing Interest

Insiders close to Pirates have indicated that, during the club’s recent trip to Algeria for their CAF Champions League clash against MC Alger, Riveiro was approached by Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic Club.

Currently, Wydad are allowing their head coach, Rulani Mokwena, to see out the season as he aims to secure a CAF Champions League qualification spot. However, sources suggest that the Casablanca-based club is preparing for the possibility of bringing in a new coach, with Riveiro seen as a strong candidate.

“You remember there was interest from Sweden and Finland for Jose (Riveiro)? Then Morocco FA was also looking at him? Now, when Pirates were in Algeria, Wydad enquired about his availability. By then, they had likely heard about the coach not renewing his contract at Pirates. However, these moves depend on the employers—Wydad is still dealing with Rulani Mokwena’s situation, and Morocco FA has yet to decide on keeping their current coach,” a Siya source revealed.

Saudi Arabian Club Also in the Picture

In addition to Wydad’s interest, another Siya source disclosed that a Saudi Arabian club had made inquiries about Riveiro even before his exit from Pirates was confirmed.

“To be honest with you, there have been multiple inquiries from different clubs, but the serious ones have come from national teams, Wydad, and a club from Saudi Arabia. We don’t know the exact name of the Saudi club, but it’s clear that the coach has done well to market himself since joining Pirates. That’s why there’s so much interest,” the source added.

Riveiro’s Strong Coaching Resume

Since arriving at Orlando Pirates, Riveiro has established himself as one of the most successful coaches in South African football. In three seasons, he has won three MTN8 titles and two Nedbank Cups, while also guiding the Buccaneers to the semi-finals of this year’s Nedbank Cup and the quarter-finals of the CAF Champions League.

As his time at Pirates nears its conclusion, Riveiro’s proven ability to deliver trophies and perform at high levels has made him a highly sought-after figure in both club and international football. With multiple suitors lining up, it remains to be seen where his next challenge will take him.