Jose Riveiro Responds to Jomo Sono’s ‘Ant to an Elephant’ Comment on Patrick Maswanganyi
Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro has defended midfielder Patrick “Tito” Maswanganyi following criticism from club legend Jomo Sono, who controversially compared the playmaker to an “ant” against an “elephant.”
Riveiro Defends Maswanganyi
The Spanish tactician weighed in on the debate, dismissing the idea that Maswanganyi is trying to take the place of past legends. Instead, he emphasized that legends are made by the love and admiration of fans, not by statistical comparisons.
“I don’t think that Patrick or anybody else is trying to take someone’s space,” Riveiro stated in the club’s Bucs Camp documentary.
“I think legends are legends for a reason in the club. It’s because the fans love you. Nothing else. Even if you provide the best numbers ever in history, but the people don’t love you, you’re not going to be a legend. You’re just going to be a good provider in the club, a good sign, or a good whatever but not a legend.”
The Pirates coach further dismissed the notion that Maswanganyi’s rise could overshadow Sono’s legacy, urging club greats to support the current generation rather than create unnecessary debates.
“The fans will make you a legend, and I don’t think that Tito, or anybody, will take the space of Mr. Jomo Sono in Pirates’ fans’ hearts,” Riveiro added. “I don’t see a bad intention, just a lack of maybe skills to understand what is your position right now and how much you could contribute to the new talented players to understand the profession better.”
Maswanganyi’s Influence at Pirates
Maswanganyi has been one of Pirates’ key players in recent seasons, finishing the last campaign with 10 goals and 12 assists across all competitions. While his numbers this season—five goals and four assists in 30 appearances—are slightly lower, his impact remains crucial for the Buccaneers.
Riveiro has previously praised Maswanganyi for bringing creativity to the team but also emphasized the need for the 26-year-old to be more effective in the final third.
What’s Next for Maswanganyi?
With Pirates competing in the Premier Soccer League, the Nedbank Cup, and the CAF Champions League, Maswanganyi has a vital role to play in the remainder of the season. His performances will also be closely monitored as he looks to secure a place in Hugo Broos’ Bafana Bafana squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Despite the debate, Riveiro’s message is clear—Maswanganyi is carving out his own path at Pirates, and his impact on the club’s present and future should be the focus.
