What’s next for Jose Riveiro? PSL return off the table after Al Ahly exit

Former Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro was fired by Egyptian giants Al Ahly last weekend, just a few games into the new season.

The Spaniard left the Soweto giants at the end of last season after a trophy-laden spell and joined Al Ahly, where he was expected to lead the club to greater success following several difficult campaigns.

However, things didn’t go so well. Al Ahly were eliminated from the Club World Cup in the United States in the group stages, and their form once the new season kicked off didn’t make for pretty reading.

They currently find themselves 3rd in the league, with one win from their four games. Last Saturday’s 2-0 loss to CAF Champions League winners Pyramids was the last straw, and Riveiro was shown the door.

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So, what now for the man who led Pirates to three consecutive MTN8 crowns and two Nedbank Cups? According to reports, he could end up in Algeria, where there is interest in his services. This move would also bring him closer to his native Spain, where his family lives.

What about a return to the PSL? According to Riveiro’s farewell when leaving Pirates, that seems to be off the table.

When asked about this back in May, he said: “Once (a Pirates), Always (a Pirates). I will never coach any other team in South Africa. I am a Buccaneer. Orlando Pirates are the only club where I could have the motivation, the courage, the energy, and the heart to coach in the country.”

For now, Riveiro faces a crucial decision in his career – whether to take up the Algerian opportunity and rebuild his reputation there, or bide his time for another challenge on the continent. What is clear, however, is that despite his abrupt exit from Cairo, his track record in South Africa ensures his name will continue to carry weight in African football circles.

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