Orlando Pirates Begin Search for New Coach After Jose Riveiro’s Departure

Orlando Pirates are on the hunt for a new head coach following the departure of Jose Riveiro, who chose not to extend his stay at the Soweto giants after three impactful seasons at the helm. The Spaniard, who joined the club at the beginning of the 2022/23 season, led the Buccaneers to several domestic successes and restored their competitive edge both locally and continentally.

Riveiro has reportedly been linked with a move to Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly, who are currently without a head coach following the exit of Marcel Koller. The potential switch to North Africa would be a step up in terms of continental football exposure for the Spanish tactician, whose reputation has grown significantly during his tenure at Pirates.

Before Riveiro’s appointment, Pirates had experimented with a co-coaching model under Fadlu Davids and Mandla Ncikazi. While the pair brought energy and structure, they fell short of the club’s ambitious standards. The management then turned to Riveiro, who brought tactical discipline, an attacking style of play, and, most importantly, silverware.

As the coaching vacancy opens up, attention has turned to potential replacements — with one of the names previously considered by Pirates being Spanish coach Pablo Franco Martin. The former Simba SC and AmaZulu FC boss, who notably served as an assistant coach at Real Madrid in 2018, has confirmed that he was approached by Pirates in the past.

“When I was at Simba, I received a proposal from them [Orlando Pirates], but it was not the right time,” Martin told FARPost. “When I am involved in a project, I like to respect the club, the people I work with, and the fans, so I don’t like to leave even when I receive a better offer.”

Martin’s comments show a deep respect for club loyalty and structure — qualities that could resonate well with Pirates’ leadership, especially as they look to build on the foundation laid by Riveiro. “Pirates are such a big club, and they are right now in the place they deserve, winning trophies and being dominant on the continent,” Martin added.

Now managing Al-Faisaly in Saudi Arabia, Martin has expressed his desire to return to South African football if presented with the right opportunity. “I just need an ambitious project that gives me the chance to fight for winning championships again,” he said.

While no official shortlist has been released, it’s evident that Pirates are casting their net wide in search of a coach capable of continuing the club’s upward trajectory. The next appointment will be critical in maintaining momentum, delivering titles, and preparing the squad for greater continental challenges.

As fans wait in anticipation, the big question remains: who will take over the reins at Orlando Pirates and guide them into their next chapter of glory?