Ernest "Wire" Mtawali, a former midfield maestro for Mamelodi Sundowns, has snubbed Rulani Mokwena and thrown his support behind Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro for the 2023/24 Season's Coach of the Year accolade.
In an exclusive interview with Soccer Laduma, the Malawian-born legend, who also donned the jersey of Pirates during his playing days, praised the Spanish coach's transformative impact on the Buccaneers this season.
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According to Mtawali, Riveiro's influence extends beyond tactics, significantly altering the team's playing style and boosting player morale.
"It's true that Mamelodi Sundowns are doing very well both locally and in Africa but for me I feel that Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has done very well and he deserves the Coach of the Season award. He has changed the team and if you look at the way they are playing it shows the work he has put into building the team. I am not quite aware how the rules for the Coach of the Year work but reaching two cup finals and already defending one shows he is a good coach and what he has done. That's why I think he should win Coach of the Season," Mtawali told the Siya crew.
While acknowledging the achievements of other coaches like Steve Barker of Stellenbosch FC and Mokwena of Sundowns, Mtawali believes that Riveiro stands out for his accomplishments with Pirates. This is surprising when you consider the Brazilians have been enjoying a record-breaking season under Mokwena and have already clinched the PSL title.
"I agree Steve Barker has taken Stellenbosch FC to new heights and that Rulani Mokwena has continued his good work at Sundowns and they may win the DStv Premiership league title without losing a game but I still feel Jose Riveiro deserves the Coach of the Year for taking an unfancied Pirates side to two cup finals and fighting for a CAF Champions League spot as well. He deserves it seriously," Mtawali believes.
Mtawali's endorsement of Riveiro for Coach of the Year is a testament to the significant progress Pirates have made under the Spaniard's guidance. Riveiro's ability to revitalize the team and lead them to notable successes this season has not only captured the admiration of fans but also earned the respect of footballing peers.
As the season draws to a close, the debate over the Coach of the Year award will undoubtedly continue, with Mokwena being the favourite to take the prize home.
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