Mpho Makola names top picks for Orlando Pirates coaching job

Manqoba Mngqithi, Pitso Mosimane and Rulani Mokwena. Photo credit. Mamelodi Sundowns

Former Orlando Pirates star Mpho Makola has offered his strong opinion on the ongoing search for a new head coach at his old club.

With the Soweto giants seeking to fill one of South African football's most prominent coaching vacancies, Makola has singled out two individuals he believes are uniquely qualified to lead the team to a coveted league title.

This comes after Jose Riveiro's departure from Pirates at the close of the 2024/25 Betway Premiership season, a move that saw him take up a position with Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly.

Riveiro's tenure at Pirates was largely successful, bringing considerable joy to the club's passionate fanbase by securing three MTN8 Cup titles and two Nedbank Cup titles. However, the elusive league title remained just out of reach.

As the Pirates faithful eagerly await an announcement, Makola, in an interview with FARPost, asserted that only Rulani Mokwena and Pitso Mosimane possess the necessary credentials to deliver what the club truly desires: the league championship.

Makola emphasised the importance of choosing a proven commodity rather than taking a risk on an unverified candidate.

"For me, it’s clear and obvious. They are the best," Makola stated, referring to Mokwena and Mosimane. He stressed that the incoming coach faces a significant challenge, particularly in light of the team's long-standing pursuit of the league title. "The team needs a tried and tested candidate," he added, noting that despite Riveiro's cup successes, the league crown eluded him.

Makola highlighted specific advantages for both his preferred candidates. He pointed to Mokwena's prior experience within the Pirates system as a significant asset, while Mosimane's extensive track record of success, both domestically and across the African continent, makes him an undeniable choice.

"Those are the undoubted and straightforward candidates for the team’s job," Makola concluded, reiterating that "It’s the league title that is needed and missed at Orlando Pirates."

Speculation around the vacant position continues, with other names such as Mokwena, Pablo Franco Martin and Mandla Ncikazi also being mentioned as potential contenders for the Buccaneers' top job.