Former Mamelodi Sundowns star Cassius Mailula has revealed what influenced his decision to join coach Rulani Mokwena at Wydad Athletic Club.
Mailula, 23, was confirmed as the new signing for Wydad, joining the Moroccan giants on loan from Major League Soccer (MLS) outfit Toronto FC.
The enterprising South African forward moved to the MSL in July 2023 after an impressive season under Mokwena at Sundowns.
His exploits in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) saw Mailula named the DStv Premiership Young Player of the Season for the 2022/23 campaign.
However, things didn’t go according to the plan at Toronto as he struggled for game time and ended up being sent to their reserve team.
Mailula will see his move to Wydad as an opportunity to revive his career and return to the Bafana Bafana setup.
The player has expressed excitement at reuniting with Mokwena and said the fact that Wydad will be part of the expanded Club World Cup in June 2025 enticed him to join them.
“I chose Wydad AC for several compelling reasons,” Mailula said through his agency P Management Sports.
“First, I will be under the guidance of coach Rulani, who knows me well and has always believed in my abilities. He played a pivotal role in my upcoming at Mamelodi Sundowns.
“Wydad is a prestigious club, and when Coach Rhulani shared his ambitions and vision to make history with the team, I knew it was the right choice,” he said.
“Additionally, the opportunity to compete in the Club World Cup next year is a significant driver to the decision, as it aligns with my dream to play against the best players in the world.”
Wydad could add more South African players as they are heavily linked with Percy Tau and Bongani Zungu, who both have worked with Mokwena before.
Cash In Transit 😊
— P Management Sports (@PManagementRSA) August 21, 2024
“I chose Wydad AC for several compelling reasons. First, I will be under the guidance of Coach Rhulani, who knows me well and has always believed in my abilities.
He played a pivotal role in my upcoming at Mamelodi Sundowns. Wydad is a prestigious club, and… pic.twitter.com/4vxdEgirqH
