Orlando Pirates Close to Naming New Head Coach Amid Mounting Speculation

Orlando Pirates Close to Naming New Head Coach Amid Mounting Speculation

Festus Chuma 18:30 - 10.06.2025

Orlando Pirates are set to announce a new head coach soon, with a high-profile African tactician strongly linked to the role.

Orlando Pirates are on the brink of unveiling a new head coach following the unexpected departure of José Riveiro to Egyptian giants Al Ahly.

With the pre-season rapidly approaching and fans eager for clarity, the Buccaneers have kept their cards close to their chest, neither confirming nor denying mounting speculation surrounding potential successors.

Sources close to the club reveal that the coaching search has intensified in recent days.

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Several agents have submitted candidates, and among those, a high-profile African coach—known for his success in continental competitions—has emerged as a serious contender.

“Look, Micky… everything is still rumours for now,” the coach in question told African football journalist Micky Jnr when asked about links to the Soweto giants as per South African.

The coach, currently under contract with Sudanese outfit Al Hilal, has reportedly not signed an extension with the club, leaving room for negotiation and a possible move to South Africa.

Reports indicate no formal approach has yet been made by the Pirates’ hierarchy, but the interest surrounding this seasoned tactician has undoubtedly caught their attention.

Eyes on Germany Pre-Season

Time is of the essence for the Buccaneers, as they gear up for a crucial European pre-season tour in early July.

The club’s technical team is keen to ensure the new head coach is installed in time to oversee preparations and stamp his authority on the squad before the 2025/26 campaign kicks off.

“The team is expected to leave for pre-season in Germany during the first week of July. So they are planning to have the new coach by that time as part of their pre-season,” a club insider disclosed.

Club officials have refused to be drawn into speculation but acknowledge behind closed doors that a decision is looming.

With less than a month to finalise their technical setup, Pirates’ management is racing against the clock to secure a tactician who fits the club's ambitions, culture, and style of play.

Coach Keeps Door Ajar

Although he downplayed the transfer talk, the coach did not entirely shut down the possibility of a move when asked about his future with Al Hilal.

“You’ll know in (a) few days’ time,” he said, fuelling speculation that negotiations could already be in motion.

Now the Buccaneers’ faithful must wait a little longer to see who will lead their club into a new era.

If the club chooses the CAF-winning tactician or unveils a surprise candidate, one thing is clear—Pirates are preparing to make a major statement.