After Wydad Casablanca, the football world awaits Rhulani Mokwena – What’s next for the tactical mastermind in South Africa or abroad?

With José Riveiro departing Orlando Pirates at the conclusion of the 2024–25 season, speculation has intensified regarding his successor. Among the names circulating is Mokwena, whose potential return would mark a significant chapter in his career.

Mokwena's previous tenure with the Buccaneers included roles as assistant coach and a stint as interim head coach in 2019. Since then, he has gone on to achieve notable success, particularly with Mamelodi Sundowns.

While there has been no official confirmation from Pirates regarding their interest in Mokwena, his tactical acumen and familiarity with the club's culture make him a compelling candidate. As the Buccaneers embark on the search for a new head coach, Mokwena's name remains prominent in discussions about the club's future direction.

Another potential chapter in Mokwena’s journey could open at Kaizer Chiefs, where uncertainty continues to hang over Nasreddine Nabi’s future. For a club desperate to reclaim its former glory, Mokwena could represent the fresh leadership and tactical sharpness they’ve been searching for.

His tactical intelligence and clear football philosophy could be exactly what Amakhosi need to rebuild their foundations and challenge for major honours once again. A move to Naturena would not only be a bold new step for Mokwena but also a chance to write his name into Chiefs’ rich history.

Given the trend of coaches making moves to the Gulf region, Mokwena might look to follow in the footsteps of his predecessors like Pitso Mosimane, who plied his trade in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. 

The Gulf leagues offer lucrative contracts and high-profile challenges, making it a tempting prospect for any manager looking to prove themselves internationally. Mokwena’s coaching experience and ability to adapt to different footballing cultures could position him well for such an opportunity.

Following in the footsteps of Benni McCarthy, who made the leap to international football management with the Kenyan national team, Mokwena could look to expand his horizons by taking up a national team coaching position.

His time at Wydad, although brief, showcased his capabilities in managing high-level talent and pressure situations. Whether with a national team in Africa or elsewhere, Mokwena’s international experience could be the next step in his managerial journey.

With his name mentioned in connection with top South African clubs, Mokwena may consider returning to the Premier Soccer League for a fresh challenge.

The timing might be right, given the shifting dynamics of the local league and the increasing competitiveness of the clubs domestically and across Africa.

Also, his experience with Sundowns would be invaluable for any team aiming for success on both domestic and continental fronts.

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