Former Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has clarified the reasons
behind his departure from the Soweto giants, explicitly stating that his
exit was not a direct move to join Egyptian side Al Ahly.
Riveiro left Pirates after three successful seasons, opting not to renew his
contract. His subsequent move to Al Ahly and brief stint with them at the
FIFA Club World Cup led to widespread speculation that the Egyptian offer
was his motivation for leaving.
However, speaking at a Carling Black Label Cup media event upon his return
to South Africa, the Spanish coach provided a clear timeline to dispel this
notion.
“The decision to leave Pirates is not related to Al Ahly or any club,”
Riveiro stated. “The decision not to extend my contract was made in December
2024. And the Ahly thing came slightly later.”
He explained that the choice was a personal career decision, made with the
conviction that it was the right step for him as an individual. “Things
happen for a reason always, and I’m only taking the positives of the
decision that I made,” he told journalists.
Now a free agent after leaving Al Ahly, the coach known as the “Spanish
Guitar” confirmed that he has several offers on the table, but none are
currently from South African clubs.
