Departing head coach Jose Riveiro has opened up his relationship with Orlando Pirates chairman Dr. Irvin Khoza.
The three-time MTN8 winner has left the Buccaneers after three seasons, having collected five trophies in the same period.
Riveiro also came narrowly close to adding more titles to that, as his side only lost the final of the Nedbank Cup to Kaizer Chiefs, and went as far as the semi-final of the CAF Champions League.
The Sea Robbers will finish second in the Betway Premiership behind Mamelodi Sundowns, who retain the league title for an eighth consecutive season.
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Speaking to media during his final post-match press conference as Pirates' coach, after a 3-0 win over Golden Arrows on Tuesday evening, Riveiro shed a bit of insight into his relationship with the club boss.
"I don’t think it’s about me saying something," Riveiro responded when asked if he had said any special message to Khoza regarding his exit.
"Recently, with the whole management of the club, I think we have managed to establish an open and honest relationship over the last three years I have been here," said Riveiro.
"The chairman has really taken care of me. He genuinely cares about my future, and what he is doing is generous and fair to me during my time here at Pirates and with my service.
"They have been taking care of me since day one, and they continue to do so now that I’m leaving. I am a thankful person, and I appreciate this; it is something I will never forget and something that makes me feel very comfortable and happy about them."
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Meanwhile, the Buccaneers' hierarchy is understood to have already started conversations with potential suitors for the vacant role of head coach. Assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi will serve as interim head coach until the end of the season.
