Former Orlando Pirates midfielder Michael Morton has raised concerns that Jose Riveiro’s unexpected announcement of his departure from the club mid-season could have had a negative effect on the team’s performance.
Riveiro, who has enjoyed a successful three-year tenure at Pirates, securing five trophies from six finals, shocked fans last month when he revealed that he would not be renewing his contract when it expires at the end of the season. At the time, the Buccaneers were still chasing a treble, having already secured the MTN8, were in the CAF Champions League, and still had a shot at the Betway Premiership title.
However, things began to unravel after Riveiro’s announcement. Pirates were knocked out of the CAF Champions League semi-finals by Egyptian side Pyramids, followed by a surprising 1-0 loss to Sekhukhune United, which effectively ended their title hopes. This past weekend, the team suffered another blow, losing 2-1 to Kaizer Chiefs in their first final defeat under Riveiro.
A Premature Farewell?
Speaking on X (formerly Twitter), Morton questioned whether announcing a manager’s departure mid-season is a good strategy. “Two managers, two mid-season farewell announcements, two treble pursuits… both falling short. Perhaps announcing a farewell mid-season isn’t the best strategy?” Morton suggested, implying that such announcements could disrupt a team’s momentum.
Many Orlando Pirates supporters also shared the sentiment that Riveiro’s early departure announcement may have demoralized the players. One fan tweeted, “The announcement was premature and as a result, it demoralised the team. Perhaps the coach should have waited until the end of the season.”
With just the MTN8 to show for their efforts this season, Pirates will likely feel they could have achieved more, especially considering their form and ambitions earlier in the campaign.
