Jose Riveiro Reveals Why He Really Left Orlando Pirates for Al Ahly
Former Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has addressed speculation surrounding his sudden departure from the Soweto giants, Olando Pirates.
Speaking in a recent interview on Metro FM, the Spanish tactician clarified that his decision to leave Orlando Pirates had nothing to do with wanting to be closer to his family.
He explained that he felt his time at the club had come to a natural end and that he needed a new challenge to continue his personal and professional growth.
“There was a narrative about my decision to leave Pirates. I have never said I’m going because of the distance. I did not leave in order to be close to my family,” said Riveiro.
Successful Three-Year Spell with the Buccaneers
Riveiro joined Orlando Pirates in 2022 and enjoyed a fruitful three-year stint, during which he guided the club to five major trophies—including three MTN8 titles and two Nedbank Cup victories.
In his final season (2024/25), he led the Buccaneers to the CAF Champions League semi-finals and secured second place in the DStv Premiership behind perennial rivals Mamelodi Sundowns for the third consecutive time.
Also Read: The last Zulu dance: Jose Riveiro’s Orlando Pirates farewell goes viral (video)
Why He Chose Al Ahly
Now the head coach of Egyptian giants Al Ahly, Riveiro said the move was motivated by a desire to grow in a new environment and test himself at another elite club.
“The decision was based on my feelings, and that my time at Orlando Pirates was up.
“I had to continue my journey and challenge myself in a new environment,” he explained
He added that Al Ahly provides a “good platform” for continued development and success.
“Al Ahly is a club that gives you a good platform to continue growing and winning trophies. I think it’s a good option for my development. I had to make a decision.”
“I’m Used to Being Alone and Focused on My Job”
Riveiro acknowledged that the distance from his home country and loved ones can be a challenge, but said it was not the main factor behind his decision to leave South Africa.
“The distance from your own country and from your family can be a problem, but it’s not the only thing,” he said.
“I’m used to being alone and far from everything, and concentrating on my job because that’s what I do, and that’s what I’m going to do here [at Al Ahly].”
As he embarks on this new chapter with Al Ahly, Riveiro also expressed hope that Pirates will benefit from a fresh approach, saying the change could be good for both parties.
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The post Jose Riveiro Reveals Why He Really Left Orlando Pirates for Al Ahly appeared first on iHarare News.
