What Rulani Mokwena told Sundowns’ captains after he was appointed coach
Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Rulani Mokwena has revealed his conversations with the club’s four captains, namely Andile Jali, Mosa Lebusa, Themba Zwane and Denis Onyango, after he was appointed as the head coach in October.
The Tshwane giants were starting to be shaky, putting in under-par performances in the new season. This led to the club’s management reshuffling the technical team.
Manqoba Mngqithi was demoted to be a senior coach whilst Steve Komphela was named first team coach.
And with Mokwena at the helm, Sundowns have been playing enterprising football, and went into the 2022 Qatar FIFA World Cup break at the summit of the DStv Premiership table.
WHAT RULANI MOKWENA TOLD THE CAPTAINS
“I had a conversation with the team’s leadership namely: Jali, Lebusa, Zwane and Onyango to reassure them that it’s still business as usual,” Mokwena told the club’s media department.
“My biggest plea to them was that we have to revive the team to its former glory. We must go back to being a team that plays with energy, aggression and the mad-dog mentality of not giving up.
“I am also grateful that we have an honest group of players. We are privileged to have players who maintain professionalism and portray an unwavering commitment to the team. They also perform their duties with the utmost diligence.”
Mokwena further shared how the board and the other members of the technical team help and backed him to succeed.
“I really need to give incredible plaudits and gratitude, not just to Flemming Berg, who assisted in giving clarity but also to the club chairman, Tlhopie Motsepe,” added the Soweto-born coach.
WHAT GAVE RULANI MOKWENA ENEGRY…
“Before the first match, the chairman offered a heartfelt prayer which gave me the energy to be brave and lead from the front during a moment of uncertainty at the club.
“Additionally, I need to give also give credit to the coaches. As difficult as it was for me, I can only imagine how difficult it was for them and the rest of the technical staff.
“Changes come with a lot of uncertainty. At that point, the boys needed calmness, clarity, and good leadership, which both coach Manqoba and coach Steve were exceptional in providing for the team.
Mokwena continued: “We had to put aside how we felt, and trust that the decisions made were in the club’s best interests. The coaches provided a sense of calmness and reassurance, showing that their leadership goes beyond their own interests.
“I cannot let a moment pass without expressing sincere gratitude for the support they provided to me and the players.”
Mokwena has been incharge for two league matches which ended in victories. He will be aiming to make it three in three when they host Orlando Pirates on December 30th.
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