Kaizer Chiefs legend Itumeleng Khune has questioned the timing of Orlando Pirates’ announcement confirming the departure of head coach Jose Riveiro, suggesting the news may have had a psychological impact on the players during a crucial stage of the season.
Read: Official: Pirates Announce Riveiro Decision
Pirates crashed out of the CAF Champions League and suffered a disappointing league loss to Sekhukhune United in recent weeks. Khune believes the announcement about Riveiro's end-of-season exit contributed to the drop in form, as players suddenly found themselves uncertain about their futures under a soon-to-be-appointed coach.
“Coming to Riveiro and the announcement, the timing was off. I think it destabilized the players, because a lot of their form has dropped,” Khune told Soccer Laduma.
The 37-year-old former Bafana Bafana goalkeeper explained that even players who had secured regular starting spots under Riveiro now find themselves under pressure to impress whoever is next in line for the Pirates hot seat.
“When a coach leaves and another comes in, that coach might bring his own players. That coach might not play you. He might say, ‘I’ve been watching Pirates from last season, and I’m not happy with so and so.’ It affects players mentally. You think: 'I’ve cemented my place, I’ve worked hard, I’ve won the coach’s heart, now he’s leaving. Suddenly, it feels like we’re all back on trial',” he added.
Khune, who has played under numerous coaches at club (Chiefs) and international level, said he empathises with the mental toll players face in moments like these.
“I’ve never had a problem with any coach because I always showed my value on the field. I used to do my talking on the pitch. But not every player copes the same way.”
“You could see that with some players it’s not fatigue, it’s mental exhaustion. They’re trying everything, but it’s a feeling of, ‘Why must I impress the coach? He’ll be gone next season.’”
Read: Riveiro Breaks His Silence On Pirates Exit
Pirates, however, will have one final shot to end the season on a high and give Riveiro a fitting send-off when they face Kaizer Chiefs in the Nedbank Cup final at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.
