Coach Rulani Mokwena reveals he beat former Real Madrid and Liverpool mentor Rafael Benitez to take over the managerial vacancy at Moroccan powerhouse Wydad Casablanca.
After Mokwena’s departure from Mamelodi Sundowns, Wydad quickly secured his services.
The 37-year-old tactician revealed that Rafael Benitez was initially the top priority for the Red Castle to become their head coach. Moroccan Football Association president Fouzi Lekjaa was enthusiastic about the prospect of the former Real Madrid manager joining the league.
However, Mokwena ultimately took on the role, marking a significant step in his coaching career.
“Rafael Benitez has also applied for this job,” Mokwena said on Radio 2000.
“The president was (Wydad president Menna) very clear, he showed me the messages to the agent.
“And he said to me fortunately or unfortunately whatever you want to put it. The president of the Morocco Football Association (Lekjaa) said to him that if you can get him (Benitez) that must be your number one choice.
“He (Menna) even sought consultation from the president of the football association of Morocco.”
Mokwena faces a substantial challenge in his new role at Botola Pro 1 side, aiming to rejuvenate the team, which has seen many key players leave the club.
The young coach has begun his tenure with determination, working diligently alongside his assistant coach Sinethemba Badela.
They are focusing on strengthening both the squad and the technical team to restore the club to its former glory as Micheal Loftman is also expected to join them in North Africa
“We have already started working. I’m in the office as we speak. Coach Badela is also here with me, and we are looking at the squad.
“Michael Loftman is one of the people I wanted, but he wants to take a sabbatical. He hasn’t properly dealt with what happened at our previous club”
PODCAST:Coach Rulani Mokwena on #Radio2000 reflects on a whirlwind week that culminated in his appointment as Head Coach of Wydad AC.He also talks about the state of the club,current team,reinforcements,Zungu,Badela,Loftman,FIFA Club WC and more.. #GameOn https://t.co/mqpbvGRsB9 pic.twitter.com/gwUwAD6x1s
— Tracksuit (@ThabisoMosia) July 16, 2024
