Former Kaizer Chiefs coach Cavin Johnson has heaped praise on Al Ahly's new mentor, Jose Riveiro, while also issuing a friendly warning as the Spaniard embarks on a new chapter in his coaching career.
Riveiro made headlines last month after parting ways with Orlando Pirates to join the Egyptian Premier League giants, an African powerhouse he described as having the stature and structure of a European club.
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The Spanish tactician enjoyed a successful three-year stint with the Soweto-based giants, clinching three MTN8 trophies and two Nedbank Cup titles.
Although he could not win the Betway Premiership, his impact on South African football was undeniable, earning respect across the continent. His new role at Al Ahly will now see him share the stage with elite coaches at the prestigious FIFA Club World Cup.
However, Johnson, who previously served as assistant coach to Pitso Mosimane during a highly successful spell at Ahly, Johnson understands the weight of expectation that comes with leading the Red Devils.
While he acknowledged Riveiro’s coaching pedigree, Johnson cautioned the 49-year-old tactician that the pressure at Ahly is unrelenting, with demands for silverware and continental dominance coming from both fans and the boardroom.
"As for the Spanish coach who signed with Al Ahly, he is a very good coach and has built an excellent team with Orlando Pirates over the past three years, but Al Ahly is a completely different story," Johnson said to 365Socres, per Twaslnews.
"Al Ahly is a team that is mostly ready, and all he has to do is manage the current players well and ensure that whoever joins the team is of the same quality or better.
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"I see him as an excellent coach, and he has been very successful in South Africa. Although he didn't win the league title due to Sundowns' perennial strength, Pirates have won all the other domestic titles.
"He built a solid team, and given many young players the opportunity to play in the first division, which is a great achievement."
