Former Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena is on the brink of a groundbreaking move to Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca.
A week after his abrupt exit from Sundowns, Mokwena may be embarking on a new phase in his coaching career.
The young coach, who guided Sundowns to consecutive DStv Premiership titles and the inaugural African Football League (AFL) title, left the Brazilians amidst rumours of a disagreement with sporting director Flemming Berg.
While some reports have prematurely announced a signed contract with Wydad, the truth is more nuanced, with several key factors still in play. Below are four insider insights about the highly sought-after South African coach’s links to the Wydad job.
NEGOTIATIONS ARE ONGOING, BUT THERE IS NO SIGNING YET
Contrary to early reports, Mokwena has not yet put pen to paper on a Wydad contract. However, talks between the two parties are well advanced, and the coach is reportedly keen on the opportunity to lead the prestigious Moroccan club. He had several other offers and has taken his time before making a decision.
ALGERIAN INTEREST FADES, WYDAD IN POLE POSITION
Insiders have confirmed that talks with USM Alger of Algeria fell through, clearing the path for Wydad to secure the coach’s services. This development has put Wydad in the driver’s seat as they seek to finalise a deal with the 37-year-old mentor.
AGENT IN MOROCCO, NEGOTIATING KEY GUARANTEES
Mokwena’s agent, Steve Kapeluschnik, is currently in Morocco and engaged in intense negotiations with Wydad officials. Besides his package, key discussion points include guarantees regarding the composition of Mokwena’s technical staff and the acquisition of new players to strengthen the squad.
POTENTIAL ARRIVAL IN CASABLANCA THIS WEEK
Should negotiations progress smoothly, Mokwena could join his agent in Casablanca as early as Thursday afternoon. However, the coach is keen to personally inspect the club’s facilities before finalising any agreement. The move indicates a meticulous approach to this potentially career-defining move.
That visit would be a significant step towards his potential appointment as Wydad’s new head coach. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether this high-profile transfer comes to fruition.
MEANWHILE, this move would mark a significant development in African football, with one of the continent’s most promising coaches set to take on a new challenge at a club with a rich history and ambitious goals. Interestingly, Wydad were the team he beat to lift the inaugural African Football League. His task will be to get them challenging for the league title and return to the CAF Champions League.
The 2021/22 CAF Champions League winners will participate in the expanded FIFA Club World Cup. Africa’s three other participants are Egypt’s Al Ahly, Sundowns, and Esperance.
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