Jose Riveiro fought back the tears in reflecting on his time at Orlando Pirates following his sides's progression into the semi-finals of the CAF Champions League.
Pirates are one of four teams still kicking in the Champions League stomach after a 1-0 aggregate win over MC Alger in the quarterfinal. The second leg at Orlando on Wednesday ended goalless.
READ | Riveiro mum on exit, eyes on the prize
It is the first time since 2021/22 that they have reached this stage of a continental competition and the first since 2013 achieving such in the Champions League.
The Spaniard, who confirmed he would be stepping down upon the expiry of his contract at the end of June, said his life has changed forever since arriving on these shores.
"You want me to get emotional now," said the normally stoic Riveiro when the question was posed to him at the post-match press conference.
"My life will never be the same after being here as a Pirates coach. What else can I tell you? It is a big change in my life.
"I am talking about all those things that you mentioned; the way that people (fans express themselves towards me. Yes... it is something special," he affirmed.
READ |Maela speaks on Riveiro's exit: We had our meetings and...
Riveiro and Co. will not have much time to celebrate as focus turns to a crucial Nedbank Cup semi-final against Marumo Gallants at Orlando Stadium on Sunday (15:00).
