Riveiro already one of the best coaches in Orlando Pirates history – Palacios

Photo Credit - Orlando Pirates Media.

Former Orlando Pirates coach Augusto "Njenje" Palacios believes Jose Riveiro will leave the club with his head held high following his shock confirmation that he will not lead the team next season.

In a shock move earlier this week, the Soweto giants revealed that Riveiro will be stepping down from his position as Head Coach at the end of the season. The club further announced that Riveiro had informed the management of his decision not to renew his contract beyond its current term.

The Spanish mentor’s contract is due to expire at the end of this current campaign. While admitting to have been shocked with the news, Palacios explained why Riveiro could still be ranked as one of the best coaches in Pirates’ history.

“It's sad news. He's already one of the best coaches in Pirates history... you can't say he's the greatest because you must not forget people like Ruud Krol and Roy Barreto,” Palacios told Sowetan.

“However, if he can win the CAF [Champions League], he'd be rightfully considered the best Pirates coach of all time. He can still win the league and the CAF, I believe he can do it and claim that status of being the greatest.”

Palacios continued: “He built a lot of youngsters, making them big and for that I respect him a lot. I don't think the news will do any harm. Players will now want to play for him more than ever to give him a nice farewell.”

Before his exit, Riveiro had managed to win three MTN title with Pirates in (2022/23, 2023/24 and 2024/25 seasons) and two Nedbank Cups in (2022/23 and 2023/24 seasons).

He still has a chance to win the team the Caf Champions League where they are currently in the quarter-finals and won their first leg contest 1-0 against MC Alger at Stade du 5 Juillet on Tuesday night.

Pirates are chasing for the Betway Premiership title, as they sit second behind Mamelodi Sundowns are are in the semis of the Nedbank Cup.