JUST IN: Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro’s right-hand man Sergio Almenara leaves Soweto giants

The Spanish-born Almenara leaves Pirates after two successful seasons with the Sea Robbers by mutual consent.

Almenara, who still had a year remaining on his contract with the DStv Premiership giants, joined the club in June 2022 alongside countryman and head coach Jose Riveiro.

“As preparations for the 2024/25 season get underway, Orlando Pirates today announce that assistant coach Sergio Almenara will be leaving the club by mutual consent,” Pirates said in a statement.

“Mr. Almenara had initially submitted his request to leave the club earlier this year, however, to ensure the team’s progress and focus during the latter stages of the league and cup competitions, management chose to address this request at the conclusion of the season.

“We thank Sergio for his contribution to the Club. The two years together have been amazing.”

Almenara said the decision to leave a club that he helped to win four trophies in two seasons wasn’t an easy one.

“This is a decision I took with a heavy heart,” said Almenara.

“I have really enjoyed my stay here, but unfortunately, due to personal matters that the club is aware of, I can no longer continue with my job.

“I have a young family back in Finland. They have been unable to integrate into the country. I would have wished to stay longer, but unfortunately, it’s not possible.

“I would like to thank the management, the technical team, players, and most importantly the fans for my stay. I will always remain a Buccaneer.”

The club said with consultation of the head coach, they will look to use this off-season break to find a suitable replacement/s as well as bolster the backroom staff in the technical, analysis, medical and conditioning departments.

During his time with the club, Pirates won two Nedbank Cups and two MTN8 titles.

The Buccaneers also finished as DStv Premiership runners-up twice in a row.