Benni McCarthy Linked with Orlando Pirates Job Amid Riveiro Exit Talks

• Benni McCarthy, the current Harambee Stars coach, is reportedly being considered as a replacement for Jose Riveiro who is expected to leave the Buccaneers at season's end
• McCarthy began his managerial career at Cape Town City, won the MTN8, impressed at AmaZulu, and is now leading Kenya’s national team
• If appointed, the ex-Bafana Bafana star could become the first person to win both the UEFA Champions League (as a player) and the CAF Champions League (as a coach)

Orlando Pirates could be headed for a major coaching shake-up, with reports indicating that current head coach Jose Riveiro may part ways with the club at the end of the season.

The Spanish tactician, who led the Buccaneers to two MTN8 titles and a Nedbank Cup, is reportedly nearing the end of his stay at Mayfair. With uncertainty surrounding Riveiro’s future, Pirates are believed to be exploring replacement options — and former Bafana Bafana striker Benni McCarthy has emerged as a strong contender.

McCarthy a top candidate for Pirates coaching role

According to sources, McCarthy is seen as a serious candidate to take over at Pirates, where he previously won league honours as a player. Should he land the role, McCarthy could write history by becoming the first person to win both the UEFA Champions League (as a player) and the CAF Champions League (as a coach). The 46-year-old has already proven his coaching credentials in South Africa, having led Cape Town City to MTN8 success and later guiding AmaZulu to a second-place finish in the DStv Premiership — their best league finish in history.

McCarthy’s international credentials

McCarthy is currently the head coach of the Kenyan national team, the Harambee Stars. He was appointed on March 3, 2025, signing a 2-year deal to lead Kenya’s preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

McCarthy's coaching team includes Vasili Manousakis (Assistant Coach), Moeneeb Josephs (Goalkeepers Coach), and Pilela Maposa (Performance Analyst). Under his leadership, Kenya have played two 2026 World Cup Qualifiers — a thrilling 3-3 draw against Gambia and a narrow 2-1 defeat to Gabon. Despite limited time with the squad, McCarthy has already been credited for introducing a more disciplined, attacking style of play. He is also expected to lead the team in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) later this year.

What McCarthy’s return could mean for Pirates

A return to the PSL would be a significant move for McCarthy and could inject new energy into the Orlando Pirates dressing room. His experience, tactical maturity, and emotional connection to the club may resonate well with supporters who are eager to see the team return to consistent title contention. Whether he stays with Kenya or returns to Soweto, McCarthy’s next move promises to be a defining moment in his coaching journey.

Riveiro's contractual situation and record at Pirates

Jose Riveiro's contract with Orlando Pirates is set to expire in June 2025. Since joining the club in July 2022, he has achieved notable success. Riveiro has won three consecutive MTN8 titles and two Nedbank Cups during his time at Pirates. Despite these accomplishments, his future with the club remains uncertain.

Reports indicate that while the Pirates are interested in extending his contract, factors such as his family's residence in Spain and potential interest from European clubs could influence his decision.

Alternative coaching candidates at Pirates

In addition to Benni McCarthy, Pitso Mosimane has also been mentioned as a potential candidate for the Orlando Pirates coaching position should Riveiro depart.

Mosimane, a highly respected coach with a successful track record in African football, including stints with Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly, is currently unattached and could be a strong contender for the role.

McCarthy explains why Kenya lost to Gabon in WCQ

Briefly News also reported that McCarthy explained why the Harambee Stars lost to Gabon on his first home game in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Nairobi.

Former Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang found the back of the net twice at the Nyayo National Stadium to give his team the deserved win over the Bafana Bafana legend-led side.

Nomso Obiajuru was a contributing writer in this article

Source: Briefly News