Orlando Pirates want to appoint Rulani Mokwena after his Wydad AC exit but his salary demands could stop the plan in its tracks

As the football season starts winding down, whispers about potential managerial shakeups are getting louder—and the Orlando Pirates are right in the thick of it.

The big news? The club has its eyes on Rulani Mokwena.

But while fans might be excited at the idea, bringing him back to South African football won’t be easy.

Pirates Want Rulani—But There’s a Catch

Rulani Mokwena, currently managing Wydad AC, is expected to part ways with the Moroccan giants at the end of the season.

Naturally, the Pirates are interested—he’s a top-tier tactician with a solid reputation.

But here’s the sticking point: money.

Mokwena’s salary expectations are sky-high, especially compared to current manager José Riveiro, whose contract is also coming to an end.

Reports suggest Riveiro’s paycheck is far lower than what Mokwena would demand.

Unless the Pirates are ready to rip up their current wage structure and start fresh, convincing Mokwena to take a pay cut might be a non-starter.

Riveiro’s Exit Paves the Way—But Will It Be Enough?

Riveiro has already confirmed he’s on his way out once the season wraps up, which technically leaves the manager’s seat wide open.

But even with that vacancy, Mokwena’s return to South African football remains uncertain.

Wydad AC is reportedly working toward a mutual split with him, but unless there’s a shift in the Pirates’ financial flexibility, negotiations may hit a dead end.

What’s the Future for Makgopa?

While all this coaching drama unfolds, another big question is what the future holds for Evidence Makgopa.

The 24-year-old striker has shown grit, pressing relentlessly and playing key roles in major cup matches.

He even started in both of the Pirates’ CAF Champions League quarter-final games against MC Alger.

Still, when it comes to league fixtures, Tshegofatso Mabasa has become the go-to man up front.

Makgopa has made 17 league appearances, but most of those have come from the bench.

With limited minutes in the Betway Premiership, he might be looking for a more prominent role elsewhere next season.

Who Else Might Be Heading for the Exit?

With all these shifts potentially happening, don’t be surprised if more changes are on the horizon.

At least three players are rumored to be on the chopping block, and if Mokwena does come in, he may want to reshape the squad to suit his style. That could mean both tactical adjustments and wage reconsiderations.

Should Pirates Break the Bank for Mokwena?

So here’s the big debate: Should the Orlando Pirates throw out their existing wage policies to land a high-profile coach like Mokwena? It could be a gamble—but one that sets a new tone for the club’s ambitions.