Former Orlando Pirates assistant coach Teboho Moloi has expressed his shock at news that coach Jose Riveiro is set to leave the club.
Riveiro has opted not to extend his stay when his contract expires at the end of the season and will leave after three good years with the Soweto giants that have yielded five trophies.
Pirates’ announcement of Riveiro’s departure on Thursday sent shockwaves among the club’s supporters given how the Spanish tactician has built a good team and endeared himself to the fans and among those left in shock is club legend and former coach Moloi.
Moloi still in disbelief over Riveiro’s departure
“It came as a shock and surprise for me. I will be honest, I didn’t see it coming because of what he has built and how he integrated himself into the history that goes with the team,” Moloi said on Radio 2000 as per FARPost.
“You know, I always hear everybody saying that he has introduced youngsters and given them a chance. But if you follow the history of the club, you will understand that youngsters have been the cornerstone of the team since the days of Ace Khuse before he went to Kaizer Chiefs.
“For me, I still don’t know how to come to terms with it. If you are a good follower of Orlando Pirates, history will always tell you that all the good coaches somehow end up leaving. Coaches like Tony Sanderson, Ruud Krol, and Gordon Igesund. This is one ship [Orlando Pirates] that has seen it all.”
What is giving ex-Pirates coach hope?
Moloi is, however, looking at the glass half full as he believes Riveiro will leave the club in a stronger position.
“As much as I’m shocked, I still have hope, and I know the ship is in the steady waters, but it will still sail,” he added.
Riveiro has earned plaudits for turning around Pirates’ fortunes with an attractive style of play, promotion of youth and winning trophies, having clinched three MTN8s and two Nedbank Cups, while his team is still in contention for the PSL, Nedbank Cup and CAF Champions League this season.
