‘Harsh’ Riveiro praises Monnapule Saleng’s return to form

Former Orlando Pirates head coach José Riveiro has expressed his delight at seeing Monnapule Saleng return to form and active play at Orbit College. Speaking candidly during a recent radio interview, Riveiro reflected on a turbulent period in their professional relationship during the 2024/25 season.

He revisited the challenges he encountered with the winger but ultimately focused on Saleng’s positive return to football.

Two seasons ago, Saleng was pivotal to the Pirates’ success in securing the MTN8 title. However, last season he faced significant setbacks, including limited playing time and a reported salary dispute with the club’s management.

“Early in the season, he had a good pre-season, and if I remember correctly, our first game against Polokwane City at home saw Saleng score the opening goal just before half-time,” Riveiro recounted.

Despite the goal, Riveiro was far from pleased with Saleng’s overall first-half performance, prompting him to question what was affecting the player’s usual dynamism on the field.

“I tried to find out what was going on because he wasn’t himself,” he noted, echoing the sentiments of many fans who had come to expect brilliance from Saleng.

Riveiro candidly reflected on how his decision-making during the high-pressure half-time environment may have exacerbated tensions between the two.

“During half-time, you don’t have time to be kind and convince someone to play or not play. We make quick decisions,” Riveiro explained. “I was harsh, which marked the beginning of a difficult period between us.”

Subsequently, Saleng was omitted from matchday squads and ultimately sidelined from competitive play. Despite the strain in their professional bond, Riveiro could not hide his joy upon learning of Saleng’s present success in his new setup.

“I am happy that Monnapule is playing football again and helping his team,” he stated, highlighting Saleng’s remarkable ability to bounce back from adversity.

“He is showing the talent we know he has, and hopefully, this is the start of good things for him. He is a good boy and deserves success.”

Riveiro’s comments not only underscore his ongoing respect for Saleng’s talent but also express his satisfaction in seeing a former player overcome personal challenges to regain confidence and form in the Premier Soccer League (PSL).

Riveiro is currently in South Africa for the Carling Knockout Cup media campaign and took the opportunity to reflect candidly on his relationship with Saleng, hoping their past difficulties will serve as learning experiences for both.