Jose “Padre” Riveiro could not have asked for a better way to end his time at Orlando Pirates than a numerical sequence of three points and three goals on the final day of his three-year stint at the club.
Riveiro bowed out in style when Pirates walloped hapless Golden Arrows 3-0 in their Betway Premiership tie at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday night.
The Spanish Guitar, as Riveiro is fondly referred to by Bucs fans, leaves as one of the best Pirates coaches, having won the MTN8 three times and the Nedbank Cup twice.
He also restored the hope and pride of the club, brought about unity among the fans, and turned Orlando Stadium into a fortress.
Riveiro also broke some records, including becoming the first coach in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) era to defend the MTN8 three consecutive times.
He also introduced youngsters such as Relebohile Mofokeng, Mohau Nkota, and Mbekezeli Mbokazi, among many others, to the PSL.
Despite not winning the PSL title, the CAF Champions League, and defending the Nedbank Cup, the Spaniard had a relatively successful stint with Pirates.
Coaching Pirates was a game changer
“For me, it was never about the medals and trophies. Yes, I would not still be sitting here if those accolades were not important, but being at Pirates is a game changer for me,” Riveiro said at his last press conference after the Arrows game.
“My life will never be the same again because I got to see life differently. It changed my way of thinking, and I can say that I am a better person than I was three years ago.
“I was not just here to coach and get a salary. I got to understand and learn about different cultures from the one I was used to in Europe.
“So, that is probably the best part of my journey, and, of course, leaving the team in a better place makes me proud.”
Riveiro leaves Pirates with a record of 80 wins, 26 draws, and 26 defeats after 132 matches.
Padre, which means father in Spanish, is reportedly on his way to the Club of the Century and Egyptian giants Al Ahly.
“I can’t say which club I am going to after this because of the confidentiality thing that I have signed, so it is not my place to break the news, but the announcement will be made soon,” Riveiro said.
