League Title-Winning Ex-Pirates Coach Dies…

Roy Barreto during the PSL match between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates in the 2002/2003 season

Former Orlando Pirates and Free State Stars coach Roy Barreto has sadly passed away at the age of 72.

The news was confirmed to Soccer Laduma on Tuesday morning by his wife, Fazi Barreto, who said the veteran coach passed away peacefully on Monday evening after battling illness.

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“Thank you, on behalf of the Barreto family, for your condolences. Roy passed away peacefully yesterday early evening,” Mrs Barreto told Soccer Laduma.

Barreto, who was living in Portugal with his wife at the time of his passing, leaves behind Fazi and their two daughters.

The veteran coach is fondly remembered in South African football for his spells with Free State Stars and Orlando Pirates, where he enjoyed one of the most successful periods of his coaching career in the PSL.

After joining the Buccaneers, Barreto guided the Soweto giants to the league title, adding his name to the list of coaches who have delivered domestic success for one of the country’s biggest clubs. His calm demeanour, tactical understanding and ability to manage players earned him widespread respect during his time in the PSL.

Before arriving in South Africa, Barreto had built a strong reputation in Zimbabwean football, beginning his coaching career in the early 1980s. He also enjoyed coaching spells in Namibia before returning to Zimbabwe later in his career.

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News of his passing has been met with sadness across the football fraternity, with many former players and colleagues remembering the impact he had on their careers both on and off the pitch.

Soccer Laduma extends its heartfelt condolences to Roy Barreto’s wife, Fazi, his daughters, friends and loved ones, as well as everyone in the football community who had the privilege of working with him. May his soul rest in peace.

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