I'll be back one day - Jose Riveiro's promise

 Riveiro was speaking ahead of the much-anticipated Betway Premiership clash against arch rivals Kaizer Chiefs tomorrow at FNB Stadium. 

The Spaniard spoke fondly of his time in South Africa and with the group of players he’s worked with, as they hope to secure all three points and keep their slim chances of beating Mamelodi Sundowns to the title alive.

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Riveiro arrived in the country in 2022 and will leave having won at least five major trophies at Pirates.

"It's been a journey. Three years at Pirates is something very special for many reasons, especially having the opportunity to affect millions of lives is a big responsibility.

"I'm really impressed with the South African league, the South African players, and not only my players. Personally, I've had the opportunity to work with exceptional human beings, especially this season's group, because I tell them nearly every day how happy they make me as a coach," said the Spanish tactician. 

The 49-year-old applauded the club’s decision to announce his impending exit well in advance, something very unusual in South African football, and says it is a way of controlling the narrative.

"It was a sign of transparency from our club. I think the plan was well executed, and it gives us as coaches and players a chance to focus on the last stretch of the season," said Riveiro.

Riveiro’s team has hit a mini-slump, having lost two games in a row in two different competitions, but the coach says they have developed an ability to self-motivate when things are not going their way.

"The camp is solid, and we are really confident about what's coming. We also know that we are facing the last part of the season, but we want to finalise it in a good way," stated Riveiro.

On whether he’s going into this game with an eye on matching Stuart Baxter’s record of five Soweto Derby wins in the PSL era, Riveiro says the only important number is the three points.