Innocent Maela backs Jose Riveiro's departure at Orlando Pirates

Riveiro, who guided the Buccaneers to multiple domestic trophies, left the club after three demanding seasons.

His replacement, Moroccan coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, has since brought renewed energy and direction — something Maela feels the team desperately needed, with the new coach having already won the MTN8 and they are also aiming for the Carling Black Label Knockout as well as the CAF Champions League and the Betway Premiership title.

Speaking on Youtube channel Lemii LoCo On Sports, Maela revealed that Riveiro's intensity and workload had begun to take a toll.

"You could see he was tired. If he had continued, the club might have gone backwards instead of forward. He needed a break because he gave everything he had," Maela said.

The former skipper, who worked closely with the Spaniard, praised his professionalism and achievements but admitted a new voice was necessary.

"He did so much for the club — one of the best in our history. But he'd reached his limit. It was time for him to rest and for the club to move on," he explained.

Ouaddou's arrival has already signalled a shift in identity at Pirates.

While he initially promised to preserve Riveiro's foundation, the Moroccan tactician has gradually stamped his own mark — bringing in 14 new signings and emphasizing quick transitions and coordinated pressing.

Unlike Riveiro's patient, possession-heavy build-up, Ouaddou's approach is more aggressive and direct, focusing on advancing into the final third swiftly.