When Jose Riveiro reappeared in South Africa this week, social media immediately started buzzing. Was the former Orlando Pirates coach planning a surprise comeback? Was there trouble in Cairo? Or was he simply missing the Black Label’s famous kasi energy?
After months of speculation, Riveiro has finally spoken for himself. And his version of events paints a picture that is less dramatic than the rumours, but far more heartfelt.
From “Plumber” To Pirates Hero
When Pirates first announced the then-unknown Spaniard back in 2022, Mzansi football Twitter was not kind. Memes flew. “Another plumber,” many joked. But football has a way of flipping scripts.
In just three seasons, Riveiro delivered five trophies, reached a CAF Champions League semi-final, and restored the Soweto giants to consistent top-two finishes. The MTN8 felt like his personal playground. Fans who once doubted him were suddenly calling him “Riva”, chanting his name in stadiums, and praising the calm strategist who brought silverware back to the Buccaneers.
By the time he announced he wouldn’t renew his contract, he was no longer the unknown Spaniard. He was a fan favourite with a trophy cabinet to back it up.
Why He Really Left Pirates
In a recent interview, Riveiro finally addressed what many supporters still debate today: Did he leave for Al Ahly? Was it money? The bright lights of Cairo? A bigger platform?
His answer was simple.
“I didn’t leave Pirates because of Al Ahly. That decision was made long, long before,” he said.
According to Riveiro, Pirates’ management knew for months that he would not stay beyond the 2024/25 season. He insists his path to Egypt only opened later.
What still sits uncomfortably with him is not the move, but the timing.
He admits he “wasn’t happy” about leaving before the season ended. But Ahly wanted him early to prepare for the FIFA Club World Cup. Pirates, he says, helped him navigate the early switch and gave him their blessing.
Back In Mzansi, But Not For A Coaching Job
His sudden appearance in South Africa, however, left fans confused. Was he scouting? Meeting old friends? Plotting a comeback?
Riveiro quickly shut down speculation.
“No, never. I will never coach another PSL team,” he insisted.
He repeated that he is a Buccaneer for life and cannot imagine standing in another dugout in South Africa wearing different colours. For Pirates fans, that sentiment landed like a warm embrace. For rival supporters, probably not so much.
So why is he back?
It turns out the visit has nothing to do with transfers or football politics. Riveiro is in the country on a special invite from Carling Black Label, a brand he has worked with for three years. As the Carling Knockout Cup final approaches, he has been brought in as part of the build-up, helping promote the tournament and reconnecting with supporters who still hold him in high regard.
Read More:José Riveiro’s Surprise Return Sparks Buzz In South Africa’s Football Circles
Is Another Adventure Coming?
Riveiro remains unattached despite his brief stint with Al Ahly. Whether another international project is on the horizon is unclear, but he has hinted that he is taking time to reflect before choosing his next challenge.
For Pirates fans, his loyalty and honesty have only deepened the affection they already had for him. For the rest of the PSL, his return has sparked the usual mix of suspicion, curiosity, and good-natured banter.
One thing is certain: Jose Riveiro may no longer be on the Orlando Pirates bench, but his relationship with South African football is far from over.
Source: Goal ZA
Image Source: Makwande M on X
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