Former Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena has shared insights into his decision to join Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca
After a mutually agreeable departure from the Pretoria-based team, Mamelodi Sundowns, Mokwena was highly sought after by The Red Castle, who were looking to bounce back from a disappointing season in the Botola Pro 1 league, where they finished in sixth place.
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On Thursday afternoon, the three-time CAF Champions League champions, confirmed the appointment of the 37-year-old tactician on a two-year contract, with an option to extend by a further year.
Mokwena expressed his delight at his new challenge and the opportunity to contribute to the club’s success.
“I can tell you that there was one line that convinced me that this was the right project,” Mokwena said.
“When Mr Hicham (Wydad President) asked me and he said, if you could give us only 25% of how you played in your previous club (Sundowns), I said, I’ll give you 26%, I’ll add one extra percent.
“And when you work with people who believe in the philosophy, the ideology, and the way you view football, it makes it a little bit easier because there’s a common understanding, you know, the language is the same.”
Even though Wydad will not participate in this season’s CAF Champions League, Mokwena will lead them in several prestigious competitions. These include the Club World Cup, the Moroccan Throne Cup, and the Botola Pro 1 league. He aims to rejuvenate the sleeping giant and restore the club to its former glory.
"𝗪𝗘 𝗪𝗔𝗡𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗪𝗜𝗡 𝗜𝗡 𝗔 𝗖𝗘𝗥𝗧𝗔𝗜𝗡 𝗪𝗔𝗬"
— Sahil Ebrahim (@sahil_e_) July 11, 2024
Rulani Mokwena reiterates that this is the right project for him now.🇿🇦
He adds that things will be easier since there's a "common understanding" between him and senior management at Wydad AC.🔴#DimaWydad@WACofficiel pic.twitter.com/gcwwrLqwuq
