Rulani Mokwena Breaks Silence On Orlando Pirates Job Links
Former Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena has spoken out for the first time about rumours linking him with a return to Orlando Pirates, saying he would welcome the opportunity if it came his way.
Rulani Mokwena Breaks Silence On Orlando Pirates Job Links
The 38-year-old is currently without a job after a short stint with Moroccan side Wydad Casablanca, and his name has been heavily linked with Pirates, who are searching for a new head coach following Jose Riveiro’s sudden departure.
Speaking on Soccer Africa on SuperSport, Mokwena said he wouldn’t hesitate to consider a return to the Buccaneers.
“Of course I would consider it [joining Pirates]. Of course I would. It’s a big club and it still got people that are very close to me. I am very fond of Dr [Irvin] Khoza, very fond and he will always have a special place in my heart,” Rulani Mokwena, speaking to Soccer Africa.
He explained that the club still holds sentimental value for him, especially because of his relationship with club chairman Irvin Khoza.
“I’m very fond of Dr. [Irvin] Khoza, and he will always have a special place in my heart,” he added.
Mokwena previously spent three years at Pirates as assistant coach to Milutin Sredojević before briefly taking over as interim head coach in 2019. He later moved to Chippa United for a short stint, and eventually returned to Sundowns in 2020, where he was later promoted to head coach.
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A Coaching Journey Marked by Success
Under his leadership, Sundowns dominated local football, winning three consecutive league titles. Despite lifting the trophy again in the 2023/24 season, he was unexpectedly fired by the club. He then moved abroad to coach Wydad but left the Moroccan giants at the end of the season.
With his proven domestic success and familiarity with Pirates, many see him as an ideal candidate to lead the Soweto giants back to the top, especially in the league, where the club has struggled under Riveiro despite doing well in cup competitions.
But Pirates may need to move fast. Mokwena is reportedly also attracting interest from Egyptian side Pyramids FC, who recently won the CAF Champions League. He was also linked with Zamalek, but he has since confirmed he turned down their offer.
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The post Rulani Mokwena Breaks Silence On Orlando Pirates Job Links appeared first on iHarare News.
