José Riveiro: The 'Plumber' Who Became Orlando Pirates' Legendary King

Three years ago, he arrived in South Africa unknown and unloved. Today, José Riveiro's set to leave Orlando Pirates as legend.

The Spanish tactician, who was once mocked as a “plumber” due to his modest résumé, will step down as head coach at the end of the current season. Pirates confirmed on Thursday that Riveiro willn't renew his contract which expires in Jun 2025.

Since his arrival in Jul 2022, Riveiro's transformed the Soweto giants from underachievers to serial trophy winners. Under his leadership, the Buccaneers have clinched 3 MTN8 titles, 2 Nedbank Cups and are still fighting for a treble: the CAF Champions League, DStv Premiership and another Nedbank Cup.

“He’s already one of the best in Pirates history. If he wins the CAF Champions League, he’ll be the greatest of all time” said former coach Augusto Palacios.

Stats back the sentiment:

• 121 games in charge
• 77 wins, a club record
• Over 200 goals scored: the highest in the PSL era for Pirates
• Five trophies in less than three years

But beyond silverware, Riveiro will be remembered for unearthing talents like Relebohile Mofokeng, Mohau Nkota and Thabiso Sesane, players who rose from academy hopefuls to first team stars.

The Pirates family now hopes to give him the send off he deserves And if he adds the CAF crown before he bows out, he’ll leave as not just legend but a history maker.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.