sportskeeda
Jose Riveiro, the departing coach of Orlando Pirates, has expressed that the heartfelt welcome from South African supporters has significantly influenced his life.
Riveiro is gearing up to depart from Pirates at the end of the season, following last week’s announcement of his resignation upon the expiration of his contract in June.
The Spanish coach, who joined Pirates in June 2022 on a three-year deal, has guided the team to five major trophies and could add more by the season’s conclusion.
Pirates advanced to the CAF Champions League semi-finals on Tuesday, achieving a 1-0 aggregate victory over MC Alger at Orlando Stadium. They are set to face the Egyptian club Pyramids in a two-legged tie later this month.
The Soweto giants are also contenders in the Nedbank Cup semi-finals, scheduled to battle Marumo Gallants at Orlando Stadium this Sunday. Furthermore, they remain in contention for the Betway Premiership title, currently trailing league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns by 12 points, despite the Sundowns having played three more matches.
“My life will be forever altered by my time as Orlando Pirates coach,” Riveiro reflected.
“What more is there to say? This marks a profound transition in my life, and I’m speaking beyond football; it’s about the way people connect and show their emotions towards one another.
“This journey has been exceptionally unique.”
When queried about the sacrifices he made for the Pirates role, he responded, “Sacrifices? This is my profession,” Riveiro acknowledged.
“I’m here for that reason, fulfilling my responsibilities, striving to elevate the club to the stature that a team like Pirates warrants, the level our supporters expect from us.
“Trust me, we completely recognize how vital football is for them. It transcends merely winning matches; we are discussing important societal issues, and I am acutely aware of this.
“So, I understand that each morning when we wake up and take the field, we know exactly what we are playing for and who our motivation is.
“Once again, I hope that in the coming seven weeks we can advance to the final stages of every tournament, and it will surely be special.
“Since my arrival here, we’ve focused on the fans rather than the media; they have consistently shown warmth, kindness, and support towards the coach. I have always stated that my life will never be the same after coaching Pirates because this club is not just ordinary; it is remarkably exceptional.”
The 47-year-old coach has managed 123 matches, achieving 78 wins, 24 losses, and 21 draws.
