Rulani Mokwena was reportedly poised to join a shock PSL side before a last minute change of heart.
Mokwena has been free to find a club of his choice after recently parting ways with Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca.
Mokwena linked to Pirates
Most recently, Mokwena has been linked with a return to Orlando Pirates. As the Buccaneers prepare for a new era after the departure of coach Jose Riveiro. In an interview on Soccer Africa, he admitted that he would relish the opportunity to work at the club again and that he holds so much respect for Dr Irvin Khoza.
This publication then reported earlier this week that Pirates were also interested in Mokwena. It is believed that high ranking figures at the club would like him to take over from Riveiro’s project. And due to the circumstances of his departure from Mamelodi Sundowns, he could arrive in Parktown with added motivation.
Confirms negotiations with Richards Bay
But according to Soccer-Laduma Pirates are not the only local club interested in Mokwena. The coach himself confirmed that he was close to taking over at Richards’ Bay FC before pulling out!
“Speaking in a candid interview with Marawa Sports Worldwide, Mokwena confirmed that negotiations had progressed significantly. He even spent a weekend in Richards Bay, observing the club’s inner workings and drawing up a detailed technical report on what changes would be required if he were to take over. However, the talks took a dramatic turn when club chairman Jomo Biyela publicly distanced the club from Mokwena, stating that there were no intentions to appoint him. The comments stunned the 38-year-old, who saw it as a breach of trust and a misrepresentation of the negotiations. “It didn’t sit well with me,” Mokwena admitted. His disappointment ultimately led him to walk away from the opportunity, despite having done groundwork in preparation for the role.” Wrote the publication.
Missed opportunity?
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