The Stockholm-based club announced the Spaniard on a contract running until December 2028, with Riveiro set to officially assume his duties at the start of the team's training camp in Spain.

The move marks a fresh chapter for the 48-year-old, whose coaching journey over the past year has been defined by sharp contrasts.

Riveiro arrives in Sweden just months after a turbulent and short-lived spell at Egyptian heavyweights Al Ahly. Despite the club's reputation for stability and success, his tenure in Cairo lasted only three months and produced a single win from seven matches, leading to an early termination of his contract.

That difficult episode stood in stark contrast to the achievements that elevated Riveiro's profile in African football. His reputation was built in South Africa, where he oversaw one of the most successful periods in Orlando Pirates' recent history.

Between 2022 and 2024, Riveiro guided the Buccaneers to five trophies in two seasons, including a historic treble of MTN8 titles and back-to-back Nedbank Cup victories.

Under his leadership, Pirates emerged as consistent challengers to Mamelodi Sundowns' domestic dominance, finishing as league runners-up in three consecutive campaigns and advancing to the semi-finals of the CAF Champions League.

His emphasis on structure, discipline and tactical clarity earned widespread praise.

After spending several months without a club following his exit from Al Ahly, Riveiro has now been given the opportunity to reset his career in Europe, with AIK backing his long-term vision.

"Welcome to AIK, Jose Riveiro," the club said in a statement.

"AIK Football agrees with Jose Riveiro on the role of new head coach of the club's men's team."

"The 48-year-old Spaniard most recently comes from the Egyptian big club Al Ahly, but also has previous coaching experience from Finland, Spain and South Africa, among others. The agreement is valid until December 31, 2028 and Jose will join on the first day of the training camp in Spain."

For both AIK and Riveiro, the appointment represents a calculated step forward—one rooted in past success and future ambition.

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