Rulani Mokwena declined an offer from Wydad Casablanca to continue as either assistant coach or technical director before their contract was mutually terminated. Wydad AC has officially ended its working relationship with Mokwena, and he has been compensated by the club.
The Moroccan giants confirmed the departure of Mokwena as head coach, just weeks after the South African was placed on “special leave” by the Moroccan giants. The former Mamelodi Sundowns coach did not manage Wydad’s last three games as they finished third in the top flight Botola. However, an official announcement regarding his departure was reportedly delayed due to details that needed to be finalised or disagreements concerning the termination of the remainder of his three-year contract.
Finishing in third place may not be viewed as a disappointing outcome for a team that finished sixth in the 2023/24 season and has reportedly faced financial challenges. Nevertheless, Wydad’smanagement was unable to secure consistent results as they aim to return to Champions League football, having previously won in 2017 and 2021/22 and finished as runners-up in 2018/19 and 2022/23.
OTHER SOCCER NEWS:The one ‘thing’ that scares Rulani Mokwena
Wydad concluded the Botola season with 54 points after 30 matches and achieved victory in their last three games under the guidance of caretaker coach Amine Benhachem.
RS Berkane clinched the top-flight title in the final round two weekends ago, finishing with 67 points, while AS FAR secured second place with 57.
WHAT WYDAD ATHLETIC CLUB SAID ABOUT RULANI MOKWENA
“Wydad Athletic and Rulani Mokwena have mutually agreed to terminate their contract with immediate effect,” the club said on Tuesday night.
“The club expresses its deepest gratitude to coach Mokwena and his technical staff for their unwavering commitment, hard work and sacrifices during a challenging season.”
Mokwena said he will “carry unforgettable memories from Wydad, a club that will forever remain in my heart”.
“I wish the team, staff and fans tremendous success in the new season and the Club World Cup [in the US in June and July].
“May you continue to make history and inspire us all.”
Mokwena surprisingly left Mamelodi Sundowns after a successful 2023-24 season in early July last year and joined Wydad days later.