Ex-Orlando Pirates Boss Riveiro Breaks Silence on Bafana Bafana Links Amid Contention With Benni McCarthy

With Hugo Broos set to depart as Bafana Bafana's head coach after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, speculation is mounting over his successor. Former Orlando Pirates coach José Riveiro has now weighed in on the possibility of taking the national team's top job.

Broos's confirmed exit has ignited a major talking point in South African football, prompting questions about who will lead the national team into the future. Riveiro, who enjoyed a highly successful tenure with Orlando Pirates, is a name frequently mentioned in these discussions.

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During his time at Pirates, Riveiro established himself as one of the most consistent coaches in the Premier Soccer League. He guided the club to three MTN8 titles, two Nedbank Cups, and secured three consecutive second-place league finishes behind Mamelodi Sundowns.

When asked if he would consider leading Bafana Bafana, Riveiro offered a diplomatic response, neither actively pursuing the role nor dismissing it entirely.

"I think we have to enjoy the moment. I think South African football is going through a fantastic moment in terms of the domestic competitions," Riveiro told the media at a Carling Knockout event.

"Bafana is doing well, going to the AFCON with an opportunity to be extremely competitive and qualified for the World Cup. It’s a moment to enjoy," he continued. "Whatever is happening right now and whatever is going to happen in the future, it belongs to other people. As coaches, we must always be ready and available for every proposal and whatever is coming, but that is something that is not in our hands."

The Spanish tactician also expressed his respect for Hugo Broos and his staff, acknowledging their achievements under challenging conditions. Riveiro noted that while Broos faced initial criticism, he successfully navigated the pressure to build a formidable team.

A number of coaches are already being linked to the job, including Harambee Stars tactician and Bafana Bafana legend Benni McCarthy.

Following his departure from Orlando Pirates in May, Riveiro took on a new challenge at Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly. However, his time in Cairo was short-lived, ending after just three months.

The club announced in September that they had parted ways with Riveiro by mutual consent, citing a need to "realign with ambitions" both domestically and on the continent.

The decision came after a string of poor results that saw the defending champions languishing in 12th place in the league standings. A 2-0 home loss to Pyramids FC proved to be his final match, concluding a difficult period where Al Ahly secured only one victory in seven games under his leadership.