2025 Club World Cup: 4 things to know about Al Ahly coach José Riveiro

Spaniard José Riveiro has been appointed as the new head coach of Al Ahly, replacing Swiss manager Marcel Koller.

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The Cairo giants will compete in the Club World Cup in Group A alongside Inter Miami, Palmeiras, and Porto.

Here are 4 key facts about Al Ahly's new coach, José Riveiro.

Early beginnings

Having never played at the top level, Riveiro started his coaching career in 1998 with a lower-league club. He then honed his craft at various teams, including CD Teis, Rápido Bouzas, CD Teis, Mondariz FC, and Choco, among others.

A successful stint with Orlando Pirates

After a fruitful spell in Finland, he joined the South African side in 2022. He went on to win two editions of the Nedbank Cup (2022–23 and 2023–24) and lifted the MTN 8 trophy three times (2022, 2023, and 2024). In 131 matches at the helm of Orlando Pirates, Riveiro recorded 82 wins, 22 draws, and 27 defeats.

1.5 million euros per year

José Riveiro and his staff will receive an annual salary of 1.5 million euros—a million euros less than what Marcel Koller and his team earned.

Tactical flexibility

The Spanish coach is known for his adaptability, deploying a variety of tactical setups including 4-3-3, 4-2-3-1, 3-5-2, and 3-4-3 formations.

Imed Ben Amara |

Editorar, fr

Imed Ben Amara - bilingual sports writer and web editor with experience in football content creation. Since 2021, he has contributed to Foot Africa, providing news coverage and analysis.