Rulani Mokwena left Mamelodi Sundowns with less than a full week but got himself a new job.
Rhulani Mokwena’s swift appointment as the head coach of Moroccan football powerhouse Wydad Athletic Club has sent shockwaves through the African football community. The South African tactician’s move comes just a week after his departure from Mamelodi Sundowns, marking a rapid transition to a new challenge in North Africa.
Mokwena, known for his tactical acumen and progressive coaching style, steps into the role previously occupied by Faouzi Benzarti. His appointment underscores Wydad’s ambition to reclaim their dominance in Moroccan and continental football, having been a force to reckon with in recent years.
The 36-year-old coach brings a wealth of experience despite his relatively young age. His journey in coaching began under the tutelage of the legendary Pitso Mosimane at Sundowns, where he served as assistant coach and gained invaluable insights into managing a top-tier football club. Mokwena’s stint included successful campaigns in the South African Premier Soccer League (PSL) and continental competitions, contributing significantly to Sundowns’ achievements.
Now, Mokwena faces a new set of challenges at Wydad, a club with a storied history and a passionate fan base. His task will not only be to maintain the club’s competitive edge domestically but also to excel in the CAF Champions League, where Wydad has a rich tradition of competing at the highest level.
The move to appoint Mokwena reflects Wydad’s strategic vision and ambition to evolve under new leadership. It also signifies Mokwena’s own ambition to test his coaching prowess in a different footballing environment, one known for its intensity and favor.
For South African football, Mokwena’s departure from Sundowns marks the end of an era characterized by his pivotal role in the club’s coaching setup. His departure leaves a void that Sundowns will need to fill strategically, as they look to maintain their status as one of Africa’s top clubs.
As Mokwena embarks on this new chapter with Wydad, all eyes will be on how he adapts to his new surroundings, implements his coaching philosophy, and navigates the challenges of leading a club with high expectations. His journey will undoubtedly be closely watched not only in Morocco but across the African football landscape.
