Riveiro reveals decision for early Orlando Pirates exit

Photo Credit – Orlando Pirates Media.

Ahead of Orlando Pirates’ Betway Premiership Soweto derby against Kaizer Chiefs, Jose Riveiro explained his early announcement decision confirming his departure from the South African club before the campaign’s close.

The Soweto giants confirmed his exit halfway through the campaign, the Spanish coach having requested Pirates’ management make the announcement. His exit came at a time when Pirates were still challenging for three trophies: the CAF Champions League, Betway Premiership and Nedbank Cup.

Two of those titles are still possible, having bowed out of the Champions League at the semi-final stage. The Buccaneers faced Pyramids of Egypt, where they drew the first leg 0-0 at FNB Stadium, before losing the away game in Cairo 3-2.

Many Pirates fans and pundits believe his decision to confirm he was leaving with the season still ongoing could have played a part in their exit from the Champions League. However, Riveiro has defended his decision, stating the announcement did not have any adverse effect on the team’s recent performance.

“I think it [the announcement] is a good way to avoid the speculation,” Riveiro said as quoted by Sowetan. “It is a good way to keep our home under control. At the same time, it was a movement of transparency from our club.

“I don’t know if it was the first time [in South African football] but it probably is not going to be the last time. I think it is a good way to understand the situation of the club, the situation of the coach in this case, to give us an opportunity as coaches, as football players, for the team to be focused in the last part of the season. I’m happy about how the club handled this situation.”

On top of losing against Pyramids, Pirates returned to the league to suffer a shock 1-0 defeat against Sekhukhune United, denting their hopes of wrestling the title from rivals Mamelodi Sundowns, who defeated Richards Bay 3-0 to open up a 12-point gap.