Assistant coach Sergio Almenara has left Orlando Pirates after the 2023-24 Premier Soccer League.

Almenara won the Nedbank Cup title and ended the PSL season in second position with Pirates.

“As preparations for the 2024-2025 season get underway, Orlando Pirates announce assistant coach Sergio Almenara will be leaving the club by mutual consent,” read a statement from the club.

“Almenara initially submitted his request to leave the club earlier this year. However, to ensure the team’s progress and focus in the latter stages of the league and cup competitions, management chose to address this request at the conclusion of the season.”

Almenara joined Pirates in July 2022 and worked alongside fellow Spaniard and head coach Jose Riveiro. They had previously been colleagues at at Finnish club Inter Turku.

“This is a decision I took with a heavy heart,” added Almenara.

“I have really enjoyed my stay here, but, due to personal matters the club is aware of I can no longer continue with my job.

“I have a young family in Finland. They have been unable to integrate into South Africa. I would have wished to stay longer but it;s not possible.

“I thank the management, technical team, players and most importantly the fans for my stay. I will always remain a Buccaneer.”

Cameroonian striker Souaibou Marou has also exited Pirates.