Latest news with #RulaniMokwena
The South African
5 days ago
- Sport
- The South African
Orlando Pirates transfer news: Mokwena, Mayele, Mbokazi, Martin
How Orlando Pirates manage the offseason will be crucial to their longevity. Jose Riveiro's departure means that not only are they on the lookout for rising and established stars in the transfer market, but they are simultaneously dealing with the complex task of finding a new coach. Both are never easy. Former Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena is reportedly on Orlando Pirates' radar, alongside Spaniard Pablo Franco Martin, who had a previous PSL stint with AmaZulu FC. The Buccaneers entered negotiations with Congolese international Fiston Mayele following his brace against the Soweto giants during the CAF Champions League semi-finals. The 30-year-old striker is said to be entertaining the offer. Al Ahly, Jose Riveiro's new club, is eyeing teenage sensation Mbekezeli Mbokazi – Orlando Pirates have said they will not listen to any offers. Club legend Lucky Lekgwathi is adamant that Orlando Pirates must find someone who can do one better than Riveiro: book a CAF Champions League final spot. 'Look I don't have a problem with the coach as long as the coach can come and take this team to another level,' said Lekgwathi. 'Look at [Mamelodi] Sundowns. Rulani left, and they got a new coach. That coach has now won the league, and the coach is in the final of the Champions League. 'We played the semi-finals of the Champions League this season, so next season we need someone who is going to take us to the final and challenge for the league as you know now our problem is in the league where we are not consistent. 'No matter who is coming, we as supporters, we just need to make sure we support him. When Jose came people called him a plumber and he surprised everyone. We supported the plumber and look where the plumber is today. 'He's one of the best coaches to have coached Pirates. That's why I'm saying whoever is coming to coach Orlando Pirates, even if he's a plumber, let's support that plumber or carpenter. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
6 days ago
- Sport
- The South African
Orlando Pirates legend on Rulani rumours
Most Orlando Pirates supporters should be excited about this prospect. Rulani Mokwena back to the Sea Robbers? In case you have missed it, the 38-year-old Mokwena left Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca after 11 wins, 12 draws and four defeats in the Botola Pro 1 league in Morocco. While the former Orlando Pirates tactician is still without a new club, rumours have suggested a possible return to the Sea Robbers. According to the club's great legend Lekgwathi, the name of the next coach is not really material. The most important thing is for Orlando Pirates to sustain the success. 'Look I don't have a problem with the coach as long as the coach can come and take this team to another level,' Lekgwathi told iDiski Times . Lucky Lekgwathi in action for Orlando Pirates in the Nedbank Cup against Cape Town City FC. Image: Kick Off. 'Look at [Mamelodi] Sundowns. Rulani left, and they got a new coach. That coach has now won the league, and the coach is in the final of the Champions League. 'We played the semi-finals of the Champions League this season, so next season we need someone who is going to take us to the final and challenge for the league as you know now our problem is in the league where we are not consistent. 'No matter who is coming, we as supporters, we just need to make sure we support him. When Jose came people called him a plumber and he surprised everyone. We supported the plumber and look where the plumber is today. 'He's one of the best coaches to have coached Pirates. That's why I'm saying whoever is coming to coach Orlando Pirates, even if he's a plumber, let's support that plumber or carpenter. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
TimesLIVE
24-05-2025
- Sport
- TimesLIVE
Rulani Mokwena pens emotional letter to Wydad fans as he leaves the club
Rulani Mokwena has penned an emotional letter to Wydad Casablanca players, supporters and staff after his departure from the club after nine turbulent months in Morocco. During his tenure, when he received persistent criticism from supporters and a section of former players, Mokwena was in charge of 27 Botola Pro League matches. During his time in charge, he managed 11 wins, 12 draws and four defeats and was absent from the last three matches after being put on special leave. Wydad ended the regular season in third place with 54 points from 30 games and because of this they failed to qualify for the Champions League for the second successive season. 'With heartfelt gratitude, I'm stepping away from my role at Wydad AC to embark on the next chapter of my coaching journey,' Mokwena said in the letter.
The South African
23-05-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Rulani Mokwena on a brink of signing with a new club?
South African coach Rulani Mokwena is on the verge of joining Egyptian giants Zamalek. The 38-year-old recently parted ways with Wydad Casablanca after just one season. The team finished third in the Botola Pro League but had to fight through a difficult midseason. At one point, it seemed Wydad would finish second and qualify for the CAF Champions League, but a streak of seven consecutive draws ultimately led to Rulani Mokwena's dismissal. The coach bid farewell after the club played their last match of the season, although he was not on the bench for the final three matches. The 38-year-old former Mamelodi Sundowns mentor has been linked to Zamalek this week. 'South African coach Rulani Mokwena is close to embarking on a new coaching experience in the Egyptian Premier League after receiving an offer from Zamalek to take over the team for the upcoming period,' Radio Mars reported. 'This development comes just hours after Wydad Athletic Club announced the mutual termination of Mokwena's contract, following a period in which he had not achieved results that satisfied fans' expectations,' they concluded. Mokwena was recently linked to Orlando Pirates after the Soweto giants parted ways with Jose Riveiro. The former Downs coach has been at the Buccaneers before, but his tenure was unsuccessful. Many Pirates fans were not keen on having Rulani Mokwena back and instead asked for the club management to call on experienced South African coach Pitso Mosimane. Jingles has been available since leaving Iran earlier this year. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
23-05-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Orlando Pirates-linked Rulani talks after Wydad exit
Former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena has addressed his future after leaving Wydad Casablanca. Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca finally announced Mokwena's departure after 11 wins, 12 draws and four defeats in the Botola Pro 1 league. Rulani Mokwena in charge of Wydad Casablanca in Morocco. Image: Soccer Laduma The Orlando Pirates-linked coach took to social media to bid farewell to the club before confirming he would continue to seek new opportunities. 'I'm deeply thankful to this incredible group of players- humble, passionate, and talented- who made this journey special. With patience, this group, led by a remarkable President, can achieve greatness,' the 38-year-old said. 'To the fans, your unwavering support fueled us through every moment. To the staff, thank you for your dedication; I wish you continued success.' Mokwena added: 'As I pursue new opportunities in football management, I carry forward great experiences and my commitment to beautiful football. Developing players and clubs and building projects rooted in passion and competitive success. Thank you for your incredible support.' Meanwhile, Mokwena is tipped for a sensational return to Orlando Pirates, while Egyptian giants Zamalek are also said to be interested.
