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Rulani Mokwena explains why he recruited Allan Freese to Wydad

Wydad Casablanca tactician Rulani Mokwena has shed light on why he chose to add coach Allan Freese to the Moroccan giants coaching staff.

Mokwena joined Wydad as their new head coach in July 2024 after his unexpected departure from Mamelodi Sundowns.

The 37-year-old has hit the ground running at his new side as he is getting more accustomed to their environment.

Mokwena brought in four South Africans to form part of his technical team at Wydad as the new season looms large. The four technical team members are Allan Freese [technical director], Sinethemba Badela [assistant coach], Sibusiso Makitla [analyst], and Sibusiso Mahlangu [fitness trainer].

RULANI MOKWENA REVEALS WHY HE BROUGHT ALLAN FREESE AS PART OF HIS TECHNICAL TEAM

Mokwena was speaking during an interview with the SA Football Journalists’ Association [SAFJA] on Thursday afternoon. He stated that he roped in Freese because he needed someone who’s experienced and knows how to win.

“Look, I think it’s happening with lots of coaches now. I remember Erik ten Hag had someone more experienced with him,” said Mokwena.

Allan Freese at Wydad Casablanca
Allan Freese at Wydad Casablanca training session

“Coach Allan Freese is no stranger to football, and he has had incredible success not only as a footballer but also as a coach. I also had the privilege and honour to work with him in my early days as a coach at Silver Stars.

“Just the other day, we were speaking about our memories of working at Silver Stars and some of the things he had gone through.”

The former Orlando Pirates coach continued: “So, when the opportunity arose, I just thought sometimes when you are a little bit younger, you need a little bit of experience around you, and coach Freese comes with an incredible of experience, and he is a great man.

“He has won a couple of trophies also. So, you also need that. Someone who knows how to win and someone who has also worked with up-and-coming players. When I looked at the project, I looked at the work that we had to do.

“I think he fitted very well, and he was available too. So, I’m looking forward to experiencing a lot of the ideas and the things he has to contribute, and so far so good.”

RELATED STORY: Percy Tau in Rulani Mokwena’s sights at Wydad

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