Orlando Pirates’ former head coach Jose Riveiro is back on the touchline after being unveiled as the new head coach of Swedish club AIK.
The Spaniard returns to European football following what was a bump in his career with Al Ahly in Egypt.
AIK confirmed Riveiro’s appointment on Friday, announcing that he has signed a long-term contract that runs until December 31, 2028.
JOSE RIVEIRO JOINS AIK IN SWEDEN
The club stated that the former Orlando Pirates boss will officially join the team on the first day of their training camp in Spain, as preparations begin for the new Allsvenskan season.
The Swedish top division is currently in its pre-season phase. AIK, based in the capital city of Stockholm, finished seventh in the 16-team league last term.
Riveiro’s name earned legendary status in South African football after his spell with Orlando Pirates. His three-season regime at the club is widely regarded as the most successful of the modern era.
During his time at Mayfair, the 50-year-old Spaniard lifted three MTN8 titles and two Nedbank Cups, building a reputation for structure, consistency and strong cup performances.
Orlando Pirates also finished runners-up in the league three times under his guidance, repeatedly pushing Mamelodi Sundowns close in the Betway Premiership race.
MOVE TO AL AHLY
Those achievements earned Riveiro a move to Africa’s most decorated club, Al Ahly, last year.
Riveiro’s time in Egypt lasted just three months. Al Ahly parted ways with the Spaniard in September after a run of poor results left the defending champions sitting 12th in the league table.
The club described the separation as a mutual decision, explaining that the team needed to “realign with ambitions” both domestically and in continental competitions. A 2–0 home defeat to CAF Champions League holders Pyramids FC turned out to be Riveiro’s final match in charge.
Al Ahly managed only one win in seven games under his leadership, bringing a difficult end to what was expected to be a high-profile appointment.
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