**Soweto, South Africa** – In a move set to send shockwaves through the DStv Premiership, Orlando Pirates are reportedly on the verge of securing Portuguese coaching heavyweight **Paulo Bento** as their new head coach. According to information received from a source close to the negotiations, the Buccaneers are “80% done” with the deal and Bento could arrive in South Africa as early as this week to finalize his contract.
The source, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the talks, indicated that the majority of the hurdles in the discussions have been cleared. While the final 20% often involves crucial details like final compensation, backroom staff composition, and specific contractual clauses, the expectation is high that an agreement will be reached imminently.
Bento, 54, brings a significant international pedigree to the table. His coaching CV includes:
* Managing the Portuguese national team (2010-2014), leading them to the semi-finals of Euro 2012.
* Taking South Korea to the knockout stages of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, famously defeating Portugal in the group stage.
* Club stints with Sporting CP (where he won trophies including the Portuguese Cup), Olympiacos, and Chongqing Lifan in China.
His potential arrival signals a major statement of intent from the Orlando Pirates hierarchy. The Buccaneers have endured a period of inconsistency, failing to mount a sustained title challenge against rivals Mamelodi Sundowns in recent seasons. The departure of Jose Riveiro at the end of the previous campaign left a significant void, and the club has been meticulously searching for a high-calibre replacement capable of restoring the club to its former glory and competing on all fronts, including the CAF Champions League.
Bento is known for his disciplined, organised approach and tactical flexibility, often favouring pragmatic yet effective systems. His experience managing high-profile players on the international stage would be invaluable for a Pirates squad brimming with talent but needing consistent direction.
**Key Points:**
* **Negotiations 80% Complete:** A source close to the deal confirms significant progress.
* **Imminent Arrival:** Paulo Bento expected in South Africa *this week* to finalize terms.
* **High-Profile Appointment:** Bento brings extensive international and club experience.
* **Statement of Intent:** Signing a coach of Bento’s calibre underlines Pirates’ ambition to challenge Sundowns’ dominance.
While the club has yet to make an official announcement, the expectation is growing that the Sea Robbers could unveil their new Portuguese skipper very soon. Should the final details be ironed out this week, Bento could quickly turn his attention to assessing the current squad, identifying transfer targets, and implementing his philosophy ahead of the new season.
The Buccaneers faithful will be watching developments closely, hoping the arrival of Paulo Bento marks the beginning of a new, successful era at the iconic Orlando Stadium.
**Disclaimer:** *This report is based on information from a close source. Official confirmation is pending from Orlando Pirates FC.*
