Wydad Casablanca have parted ways with Rhulani Mokwena and appointed Amine Benhachem until the end of the season

Rhulani Mokwena steps down as head coach of Wydad Casablanca, as confirmed by Wydad Times.

His departure comes after a run of poor form saw Wydad falling out of the Caf Champions League qualification places in the Botolo Pro league with just three matches of the season remaining.

In his final match, Wydad drew 1-1 with OC Safi after leading for over 75 minutes. A red card proved costly, as the home side equalised just two minutes later. The club and Mokwena have since reached a mutual agreement to part ways.

Despite lifting the team to third place and improving their points tally from the previous season where Wydad finished sixth, club officials felt Mokwena had fallen short of expectations.

Reports in South African media suggest Mokwena is among the candidates to replace Jose Riveiro at Orlando Pirates.

This potential move has sparked debate, with Bucs legend Moeneeb Josephs questioning Mokwena's suitability for the role.

Nevertheless, the link to the Pirates job is gaining momentum as Bucs weigh up their coaching options.

Mokwena is expected to meet with Wydad president Hicham Aït Menna to formalise his departure in the next day or so.

The South African coach will be disappointed he won’t be leading Wydad to the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup but it opens up possibilities for his return to South African football.