Rulani Mokwena’s journey with Wydad Athletic Club has been anything but smooth. Since his appointment in July 2024 following his exit from Mamelodi Sundowns, the South African coach was tasked with steering the Moroccan giants back to their glory days after a disappointing sixth-place league finish.
Early Struggles and Public Apology
Mokwena endured a tough start. In December, a heavy 4-1 defeat to Maghreb of Fez extended the team’s winless streak and dropped them further down the table. The pressure mounted, and Mokwena was forced to publicly apologise to fans, expressing his love for the club and desire to succeed. “I want to be here… with all my heart because I love the club and I am doing my best,” he said at the time.
Signs of a Comeback
By February 2025, the tide began to turn. Wydad climbed to second in the standings after a five-match winning run. Mokwena’s efforts in the transfer window paid off, with familiar faces such as Thembinkosi Lorch and Cassius Mailula – both formerly of Orlando Pirates – adding quality to the squad. The club looked revitalised, and Mokwena appeared to have earned some breathing room.
Cup Exit Reignites Pressure
That resurgence was short-lived. Wydad’s 1-0 loss to Moghreb Tetouan this past weekend saw them eliminated from the Moroccan Throne Cup – one of their two remaining objectives for the season, along with qualifying for the CAF Champions League. With the club having already lost out on the league title to RS Berkane, tensions have flared again.
According to reports, the defeat has amplified calls for Mokwena’s resignation. Even Hicham Ait Menna, the club official who backed Mokwena’s appointment, is facing criticism from both the board and supporters.
Rulani Mokwena Refuses to Resign – For Now
Despite the mounting pressure, Mokwena has reportedly rejected calls to step down immediately. It is believed that his contract is structured in a way that makes termination financially burdensome for Wydad. Instead, Mokwena is determined to finish the season and secure a place in next year’s CAF Champions League.
Crucially, the 2024 African Football League winner has indicated that if he fails to qualify the club for continental competition, he would be willing to step down at the end of the campaign – free of charge.
Could He Return to Orlando Pirates?
With his future in Morocco uncertain, speculation has begun to surface regarding a potential return to Orlando Pirates. Mokwena previously served in the Buccaneers’ technical team and briefly held a co-coaching role.
However, José Riveiro has brought stability to the Soweto giants, and there’s currently no suggestion that Pirates are looking for a change. While a romantic reunion might appeal to some fans, a return to the club appears unlikely in the short term.
Final Stretch Will Define His Future
For now, Rulani Mokwena remains focused on salvaging Wydad’s season. If he guides the team to CAF Champions League qualification, he may silence his critics. But failure to do so could see the South African tactician back on the market – and perhaps back in our domestic football scene before long.
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