Orlando Pirates have the difficult task of replacing serial winner Jose Riveiro at the end of the season. Here are their top options.
Top contenders to replace Jose Riveiro at Orlando Pirates
Pitso Mosimane would be a dream for Orlando Pirates
The great man needs no introduction. Wouldn’t it be ironic if Jingles, a man courted by Kaizer Chiefs for years, ended up coaching their rivals, Orlando Pirates? It’s a bit of a wild card option, but never say never in football. With Pirates making the three-time Caf Champions League winner their top priority, would Jingles be tempted by the opportunity?
Steve Barker
Stellenbosch FC are arguably the most well-run club in South Africa’s PSL, all things considered and factoring in their financial resources. Manager Steve Barker has done a stellar job with the Cape Winelands, turning Stellies into a dangerous side who can cause anyone problems on any given day. They also won the first trophy in their history under Barker, the Carling Knockout 2024.
Marcell Koller
Al Ahly’s boss has a fine CV, notably Caf Champions League crowns with the Egyptian giants in 2023 and 2024. If Pirates can’t secure a second star under Jose Riveiro, they might be tempted to move heaven and earth to secure the 60-year-old Swiss.
What a legacy, statue loading outside the Orlando Stadium?
Jose Riveiro’s trophy-to-match ratio is almost unheard of. Having just surpassed 120 games in charge, he’s won five trophies with the Buccaneers at an average of one trophy every 24 games. An unprecedented three-peat in the MTN8 gives Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls vibes. Well, not quite that epic, but it’s incredibly impressive. We’ve seen the likes of Arsene Wenger and Sir Alex Ferguson get statues of their likeness built outside Emirates Stadium and Old Trafford. What’s stopping Pirates from doing the same with Riveiro?

Who’s your top candidate?
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