Last week, Orlando Pirates announced that their head coach, Jose Riveiro, will be departing the club at the end of the current season (2024/2025).
The Spanish coach, who joined the Buccaneers in 2022, has been credited with transforming them into a formidable team.
In light of his impending exit, Afrik-Foot looks at the top five players who significantly benefited from Riveiro's leadership.
FIVE PLAYERS WHO ROSE UNDER RIVEIRO’S LEADERSHIP
1 – Monnapule Saleng
Returning from a loan spell at Moroka Swallows at the beginning of the 2022/23 season, the same time as Jose Riveiro's arrival, the left-footed player was initially an unknown.
However, Riveiro placed his trust in him, giving him the opportunity to become a regular starter for Orlando Pirates. The former Free State Stars star excelled that season for “Ezimnyama Ngenkani,” making 30 appearances and scoring an impressive 15 goals across all competitions.
His pivotal role in the team even saw him become a strong contender for the PSL Footballer of the Season award, which eventually went to Mamelodi Sundowns' Teboho Mokoena.
His stellar performances were further recognized at the 2023 PSL Awards, where he was named MTN 8 Last Man Standing and DSTV Premiership Players' Player Of The Season.
2 – Patrick Maswanganyi
Following an impressive stint with SuperSport United in the 2022/23 season, Maswanganyi was signed by Riveiro for Orlando Pirates at the beginning of the 2023/24 season.
Known for his “kasi flava” flair, Maswanganyi was encouraged by Riveiro to play with creative freedom, allowing him to showcase his best abilities.
This approach saw Maswanganyi become a star for the Sea Robbers last season, earning him a nomination for the Footballer of the Season award, which was eventually won by Ronwen Williams of Mamelodi Sundowns.
His talent has also been recognized at the national level, with Maswanganyi becoming a regular in the Bafana Bafana setup, where Hugo Broos views him as a perfect replacement for Themba Zwane.
3 – Relebohile Mofokeng
Riveiro played a pivotal role in launching Mofokeng's professional career, giving him his debut towards the end of the 2022/23 season after the player's progression from the DStv Diski Challenge.
Showing faith in the young talent, Riveiro gradually introduced the 20-year-old into the first team before confidently declaring him a regular and key member of his squad.
Mofokeng's exceptional talent shone through last year, as evidenced by his impressive collection of accolades: PSL Young Player of the Season, Nedbank Cup Most Promising Player, Gauteng Sports Awards Sports Personality of the Year, and the 2024 GQ South Africa Sportsperson of the Year.
His consistent performances have also made him a trusted player for Hugo Broos in the Bafana Bafana setup.
4 – Mohau Nkota
Another exciting talent fast-tracked into the Orlando Pirates senior team this season by coach Riveiro is Mohau Nkota.
The left-footed winger has quickly made his mark with impressive performances, showcasing his potential to be a future star for the Buccaneers. His contributions this season include a notable five goals and three assists across 26 appearances in all competitions.
5 – Thabiso Sesane
Sesane is one of the youngsters that Riveiro has played a big part in their rise in the senior team. When Tapelo Xoki got injured at the beginning of the season, Riveiro was brave to trust Sesane with the centre-back role.
