Pirates players have spoken, now Riveiro on Gilberto

Head coach Jose Riveiro has provided his assessment of new signing Gilberto, who could make his competitive debut when Orlando Pirates host SuperSport United in the MTN8.

The Sea Robbers acted swiftly in strengthening their squad for what promises to be an action-packed season that will see them return for hopefully an improved showing in the CAF Champions League by roping in Gilberto from Petro de Luanda. 

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The 23-year-old joined up with the squad on day two of their pre-season camp in Spain and was on the score sheet in a 1-1 draw against La Liga outfit Granada.

Some of his new teammates, including Deon Hotto and Makhehlene Makhaula, have already waxed lyrical about the man who reportedly cost R11 million to bring over to South Africa, and now, speaking to the journalists at the launch of the MTN8 on Wednesday, Riveiro gave his assessment of the Angolan international.

"Well I can tell you that he is settling very well in the group, he is a very open guy," said the Spaniard.

"Our group in that sense is very special as well, lots of young players that have a lot of qualities [similar] with Gilberto.

"We all are trying to help him to – first of all – express himself on the field, to try to play to the best of his capacity, but at the same time, trying to help him feel comfortable in the group and that is something we did very well, in my opinion.

"His personality is one with a capacity to attract his teammates, to get their attention. But from the first day, he is a humble guy, with zero complaints about behaviour in these three weeks he has been around."

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Pirates began the defence of their MTN8 title with a tricky quarter-final clash against SuperSport United on Saturday at Orlando Stadium. Kick-off is at 18:00.