Jose Riveiro responds to rumors that he could coach Bafana! | OneFootball

The Spaniard's mission with Al-Ahly has ended.

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Unattached coach Jose Riveiro has broken his silence regarding a potential future role with the South African national team, Bafana Bafana. The Spanish mentor, who is currently without a club after a brief stint with Egyptian giants Al Ahly, was questioned about his interest in the position.

Riveiro's reputation in South African football was forged during a highly successful three-year period with Orlando Pirates, where he secured five major domestic trophies, including three MTN8 and two Nedbank Cup titles. His subsequent move to Al Ahly in May 2025 proved short-lived, ending after just three months.

When confronted with the possibility of taking the helm at Bafana Bafana, Riveiro chose to deflect focus onto the current coach, Hugo Broos, and the team's positive trajectory. He stated: “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.”

He further elaborated on the national team's successes, adding: “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. Whatever is happening right now and whatever is going to happen in the future, it belongs to other people.”

While not directly accepting or rejecting the idea, Riveiro acknowledged that coaches must always be prepared for new opportunities. However, he was quick to pay his respects to the incumbent, saying: “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.”

He concluded with high praise for the current technical team, noting: “I fully respect Hugo and his technical team; they have been doing a fantastic job in difficult circumstances. Things were not easy for him in the beginning, and he managed to go through all the criticisms and controversial moments to finally have a solid team.”