Former Orlando Pirates winger Dikgang Mabalane recently shared his thoughts on the striking parallels between the departures of two of the club’s most successful coaches, Ruud Krol and Jose Riveiro.
Both of these coaches achieved significant success during their tenures but ultimately chose not to renew their contracts after three years at the helm.
Krol Left on a High and So Might Riveiro
Mabalane pointed out how unusual it is for successful coaches to leave on such a high note.
Krol, for example, won a treble in his final season with the Buccaneers but still left when his contract expired.
Similarly, Riveiro, who is currently in his last year with the team, has led Orlando Pirates to five trophies during his time as head coach.
Just last month, he made the announcement that he would be stepping down at the end of the season.
“It’s strange,” Mabalane said, reflecting on both Krol and Riveiro’s departures.
“In my era, we also won the treble, and Krol left when he was at the top, and the same could happen with Riveiro.
It could make things interesting,” he told iDiskiTimes.
A Mysterious Departure
Though Mabalane admitted that he’s unsure of the real reasons behind their exits, he speculated that there could be factors beyond their control.
“He’s done well for the club,” Mabalane noted, adding that sometimes leaving on a high is actually the best decision.
“I think sometimes it’s better to leave on a high, but I would have wanted to see him continue with the club.”
Mabalane even suggested that Riveiro could have potentially led the team to a league title, as he appeared to be the right man to accomplish that goal.
“Maybe leading them to a league title, he seemed to be the man to do it,” he added.
Riveiro’s Legacy and the Uncertain Future
Krol and Riveiro are arguably two of the most successful coaches Orlando Pirates has had in the PSL era.
Now, with Riveiro’s departure confirmed, the Buccaneers are left searching for his replacement.
The uncertainty surrounding the next chapter for the team is palpable, with fans and pundits alike wondering how the team will fare next season under new leadership.
The future of Orlando Pirates is now in the hands of whoever steps in to take over from Riveiro.
As Mabalane pointed out, the new coach will undoubtedly face high expectations, especially after Riveiro’s stellar tenure.
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