iDiski TV analyst Junior Khanye has reacted without shock following Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro’s decision to quit the club, saying they have themselves to blame after letting slip of top spot in the second round.
With his original three-year deal set to expire, the Spaniard opted not to renew his stay having won five domestic titles since his arrival, and still remains in contest for the league, Nedbank Cup and CAF Champions League this term.
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The former Kaizer Chiefs winger applauded the Buccaneers for becoming a force in challenging a dominant Mamelodi Sundowns side but still felt having potentially lost out on the league title may have prompted his exit.
“I’m not surprised at all,” Khanye said on iDiski TV.
“First of, let me complement the guy [Riveiro]. The guy, I think he’s the first coach after a while to challenge Mamelodi Sundowns. Very, very strong team – I’m talking about Sundowns.
“Challenging Sundowns with youngsters, under 20 players, I’m referring to [Mohau] Nkota, Relebohile Mofokeng also [Patrick] ‘Tito’ Maswanganyi, Thalente Mbatha. The age of all these players to challenge, well done to the coach. The guy has done well for himself.
“Also, the identity how Pirates is supposed to play, attacking-minded team. They were very exciting to watch. Very skilful team as well. They win in style couple of games.
“Also, the guy this season, was sitting on number one I think first round of the season with these boys, it’s not easy.
“And Pirates, well done to the coach, they are not spending like Sundowns how they spent, but the guy was able to challenge Sundowns without spending too much.
“The reason why I say I’m not surprised [with Riveiro’s exit], this guy had the chance to win the league this year.
“He was sitting at number one I think first round of the season. Let it go second round of the season. It’s not finished but look at the gap.
“Pirates are themselves to blame. As a coach, I think he was panicking second round of the season.”
