Orlando Pirates begin talks with Rulani Mokwena over head coach role in South Africa after parting ways with Jose Riveiro

Just when the dust was settling after Jose Riveiro’s exit, Orlando Pirates might be pulling a bold move to reshape their future.

The club has reportedly started talks with a familiar face—Rulani Mokwena—in a bid to bring him back as head coach.

And it’s not just Pirates making the call—other top clubs are circling too.

Pirates Hold Talks With Mokwena as Big Clubs Compete

Sources close to the situation say that Orlando Pirates met with Mokwena earlier this week to discuss the possibility of him returning to the club.

But they’re not alone—Pyramids FC, fresh off their CAF Champions League triumph, are also said to be eyeing the 38-year-old tactician.

That puts the Buccaneers in a race they’ll want to win quickly if they want him in the dugout before their pre-season tour in Spain.

A Potential Technical Shake-Up on the Cards

If things go smoothly and Mokwena agrees to return, fans can expect more than just a new man on the sidelines.

Reports suggest he would likely revamp the technical team, bringing in fresh minds to help push the team to the next level.

Pirates are hoping to wrap up negotiations fast so that the new regime has enough time to get things rolling before the season kicks off.

Returning to Where It All Began

This wouldn’t be Mokwena’s first rodeo with Orlando Pirates.

He was previously with the club back in 2019, and many fans still associate him with a forward-thinking, attack-minded style of play.

Since then, his coaching résumé has only grown stronger.

At Mamelodi Sundowns, he lifted four league titles and made waves in the African Football League.

He also recently finished a stint at Wydad AC, although he left with a few matches still left in the season.

Why This Could Be a Win-Win for Both

From the club’s perspective, Mokwena brings a winning mentality, a deep understanding of South African football, and—importantly—a history with the Pirates brand.

For the coach, a return to the Buccaneers could be the perfect stage to reinforce his legacy, especially after proving himself on the continental scene.

It’s also worth noting that Pirates have had success in cup competitions lately.

Adding someone like Mokwena could boost their league title ambitions and give them a stronger edge in CAF tournaments.

What’s at Stake If the Deal Happens

A return for Mokwena isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about ambition.

Pirates want to reclaim their status as one of the continent’s elite.

But there are challenges, too. There’s pressure to win, expectation from fans, and the ever-present question of whether old dynamics can still work in a new era.

If Mokwena can balance his tactical expertise with the evolving demands of the club, this reunion could be exactly what Pirates need to take the next step—both at home and in Africa.