It looks like the future of both Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs’ coaches is uncertain heading into next season.
The two iconic Soweto clubs have had their ups and downs over the past few years, and now it seems both teams might face changes in the coaching department.
Pirates’ Success with Foreign Coaches
Orlando Pirates, under the leadership of coach Jose Riveiro, has had a much more successful run in recent years, clinching five trophies since his arrival.
In contrast, Kaizer Chiefs has struggled, with the club cycling through new coaches every season.
Both teams have tried giving local coaches a shot in the past, but neither seemed to work out, leading to the decision to bring in experienced foreign coaches instead.
Uncertainty for Riveiro and Nabi
In South African football, it’s rare for foreign coaches to stick around for more than four or five seasons, and both Riveiro and Chiefs’ coach, Nabi, could be leaving soon.
Riveiro spoke about his future at Orlando Pirates during an interview with Robert Marawa on 947, addressing the possibility of his departure.
“It’s a good question, an important one probably for many people,” Riveiro said when asked about his future.
He went on to share his thoughts on the matter, offering a standard response: “I’ll give you the standard answer [about my future], which is I’m sorry to disappoint you and disappoint your listeners as well.”
A Crucial Time for Both Clubs
Riveiro further explained that the team was in the middle of a crucial part of the season.
“We’re in the middle of the fifth month of the season; we’re not even halfway,” he noted.
This implies that both he and the club are focused on the present, rather than what might come next season.
With the possibility of Riveiro leaving at the end of the season, there’s a similar situation brewing at Kaizer Chiefs.
If results don’t improve, Nabi might also be on his way out.
Recently, the Tunisian coach turned down an offer to coach his national team, which has led many to speculate about his future.