With the Siya crew recently revealing that Orlando Pirates could consider internal options as Jose Riveiro is expected to depart the club, talk has intensified around the club possibly following the Mamelodi Sundowns model – a structure that brought continued success even after a high-profile coaching exit.
When Pitso Mosimane left Sundowns in 2020 to take over at Al Ahly, many predicted a dip in the Brazilians’ fortunes.
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Instead, the club doubled down on continuity, promoting trusted assistants Rulani Mokwena and Manqoba Mngqithi to the helm.
The move paid off handsomely, as Sundowns maintained domestic dominance and remained a force in African football.
In a similar scenario, Pirates could opt to keep it in-house. Assistant coaches Carlos Nodar Paz and Mandla Ncikazi are both highly respected within the club and familiar with Riveiro’s methods and philosophy.
Their continuity could provide the Buccaneers with a smooth transition – just as Sundowns experienced.
Ncikazi, in particular, has head coaching experience and deep knowledge of South African football, while Paz is viewed as a tactically sharp figure trusted by Riveiro.
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Between them, Pirates may already have the tools to maintain momentum if the Spaniard leaves.
For the Soweto giants, emulating Sundowns’ strategic approach could be the key to long-term success – with or without Riveiro.
