Orlando Pirates may not need to look far in their search for a new head coach, as internal candidates are already being considered to fill the void set to be left by Jose Riveiro at the end of the season.
The Siya crew has learnt that members of the current technical team, including Spanish coach Carlos Nodar Paz, could be in the running for the top job.
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Last Thursday, the Soweto giants officially confirmed that Riveiro will step down once his contract expires at the end of the 2024/25 campaign.
The 47-year-old tactician, who joined the Buccaneers in 2022, informed the club's management of his decision not to renew his contract, sparking speculation about his potential successor.
While Pirates are expected to launch a thorough process to appoint a new head coach ahead of the 2025/26 season, insiders have revealed that continuity could play a key role in that decision.
Among those being considered is Paz, Riveiro's compatriot, who joined the club at the beginning of the current season.
Paz is currently serving in the physical training and strength and conditioning department at Pirates.
Although his role is primarily fitness-focused, he is no stranger to coaching, having previously worked as an assistant coach and youth coach in various parts of the world.
His coaching journey includes stints at Spanish side Celta de Vigo alongside Riveiro, as well as ventures in India with East Bengal FC and in China with Wuhan Three Towns FC.
When Paz was brought into the Pirates fold, he was initially seen as a possible replacement for Sergio Almenara – Riveiro's former assistant who departed at the end of last season. While Paz was ultimately assigned to a different department within the technical team, his deep coaching experience has not gone unnoticed.
"He (Paz) is very capable as a coach, that's what I can tell you, and that's why the coach went to fetch him from where he was," a source close to the club revealed.
"But as for the club's plans for him, that will be finalised at the end of the season. He is part of the coach's (Riveiro's) success this season, and his work is recognised and appreciated," the source added.
Under Riveiro's tenure, Pirates have earned praise not just for their on-field performances, but also for their strong focus on youth development.
Promising talents such as Relebohile Mofokeng, Mohau Nkota, Siyabonga Ndlozi, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, and Yanga Madiba have been promoted from the Reserve Team to the first team. Any incoming coach will be expected to continue this legacy of nurturing homegrown talent.
Riveiro's appointment itself proved that Pirates value alignment with the club's philosophy over flashy CVs.
When he took over in 2022, he was relatively unknown in South African football circles. However, he quickly earned respect for his tactical acumen and commitment to developing young players.
Historically, Pirates have not shied away from promoting from within. Figures such as Eric Tinkler, Mandla Ncikazi, and Fadlu Davids all rose from assistant roles to head coaching positions.
If the trend continues, Paz may well be the next in line to lead the Buccaneers into a new chapter.
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With the end of the season fast approaching, all eyes will be on the club's next move – whether they opt for an internal successor who understands the DNA of the club, or venture outward in search of new leadership.
Either way, the post-Riveiro era promises to be one of intrigue and opportunity at Ezimnyama.
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