As Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro’s departure at the end of the 2024/25 season looms, speculation is mounting over who will succeed him at the helm of the iconic South African club. Several high-profile names have been linked to the job, with former Pirates players and successful South African tacticians among the top contenders to step into Riveiro’s sizable shoes.
The Buccaneers, under Riveiro’s guidance, have had a successful season, pushing hard for the PSL title while making progress in the Nedbank Cup semi-finals and the CAF Champions League. The Spanish coach, who is set to return to Spain, will leave behind a squad in excellent form, eager to continue their success and maintain the momentum for the upcoming seasons.
As the club moves towards a new era, it is expected that chairman Irvin Khoza will tap into the vast pool of South African coaching talent to find a suitable replacement.
Among the names at the top of the list is Benni McCarthy, the current Harambee Stars coach. McCarthy, who has an illustrious footballing career and coaching experience with clubs such as AmaZulu, Cape Town City, and even a stint as a first-team coach at Manchester United, has been a transformative figure for Kenyan football since taking charge of the national team.
However, despite his ongoing role with Harambee Stars, McCarthy has been linked with a return to the South African giants. His track record in both domestic and international competitions makes him a prime candidate for the Pirates job. Should he take over, McCarthy would have the unique opportunity to make history by becoming the first coach to win both the UEFA Champions League and CAF Champions League, a feat that would solidify his legacy in African football.
Another top contender is Pitso Mosimane, widely regarded as one of Africa’s most successful coaches. With a resume that includes multiple PSL titles, three CAF Champions League trophies, and numerous domestic cups, Mosimane’s pedigree is unmatched in South African football.
Although currently without a club after leaving Iranian side Esteghlal, Mosimane has expressed interest in returning to South Africa if the right opportunity arises. Given his prior successes, including dominating the continental scene with Mamelodi Sundowns, Mosimane would bring immense experience and ambition to Pirates, helping them challenge for CAF Champions League glory.
In addition to Mosimane, Rhulani Mokwena has also been tipped as a potential candidate. Mokwena’s current success with Wydad Casablanca in Morocco has earned him widespread recognition across the African continent. Known for his tactical brilliance, Mokwena’s understanding of modern football would be a major asset to Pirates. With his roots deeply tied to the club through his footballing family, Mokwena’s return to Pirates could feel like a natural step forward in his coaching journey, especially after his initial stint at the club.
Other names include Manqoba Mngqithi, who has been a long-time assistant at Sundowns and currently leads Golden Arrows. Mngqithi’s tactical prowess has made him one of the most respected figures in South African football, and his name has also emerged as a possible replacement for Riveiro. Then there’s Molefi Ntseki, whose experience at the helm of Bafana Bafana and junior national teams could provide the steady leadership needed at Pirates.
As Orlando Pirates look to prepare for the future, the pressure will be on Khoza and the club’s management to make the right choice. The departure of Riveiro presents a critical moment for the club, and whoever takes over will inherit a team brimming with potential and set for continental success.
It remains to be seen whether Pirates will choose an established figure like McCarthy or Mosimane, or opt for a younger, tactical mastermind like Mokwena or Mngqithi. However, one thing is certain: the race for the Pirates job is heating up, and the club’s future could be shaped by this important decision.
