Orlando Pirates defender Nkosinathi Sibisi has reacted with shock to the news that assistant coach Sergio Almenara has left the reigning Nedbank Cup champions.
Sibisi is currently on international duty with Bafana Bafana ahead of their 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifier matches against Nigeria and Zimbabwe on Friday and next Tuesday.
Two days after defeating Mamelodi Sundowns 2-1 to successfully defend the Nedbank Cup, the Pirates announced on Monday that Almenara would be departing by mutual consent.
Amazing two years
“Mr Almenara had initially submitted his request to leave the club earlier this year; however, to ensure the team’s progress and focus during the latter stages of the league and cup competitions, management chose to address this request at the conclusion of the season,” the club said in a statement.
“We thank Sergio for his contribution to the club. The two years together have been amazing!”
Speaking to the media during a press conference at Dobsonville Stadium, Sibisi said the news came as a shock.
“It came as a shock to me to find out that coach Sergio is leaving the club. I only saw it on social media since I am in camp with the national team,” Sibisi said.
“I think it will be a big loss because he is a very good coach, and he will be dearly missed by the club.”
Return of Lyle Foster a huge boost
Sibisi also opened up about the return of Burnley striker Lyle Foster, saying his comeback will bolster the team. He added that they will offer him all the love and support he needs.
“It’s great to have Lyle back because he went through a rough patch,” Sibisi said.
“Lyle is a quality player and plays at the highest level, so having him here will make a difference, but take nothing away from the guys that were there [Africa Cup of Nations].
“They did exceptionally well for us, but having Lyle back will be a bonus for the team.
“I don’t think there is much for us to do [to reintegrate him into the team] because he is our brother, and for us, it is to show him love and support for everything that he has been through.
“So, I don’t think it will be a problem in terms of him reintegrating with the team because we are the same team that he returns to.”
