If you’ve been following Orlando Pirates or just love South African football drama, you’ll know the club’s been hunting for a new head coach ever since Jose Riveiro left for Egyptian giants Al Ahly back in April.

Now, it looks like they might be turning to someone who knows the Sea Robbers all too well—Rulani Mokwena.

And yes, that name should ring a bell. Because this wouldn’t be Mokwena’s first time steering the Pirates ship.

Rulani Mokwena Set for a Buccaneers Comeback

According to iDiski Times journalist Sinethemba Makonco, Rulani Mokwena’s return to Orlando Pirates is all but sealed.

Talks between the coach and the club are reportedly in the final stages, with just a few last details left to sort out.

Now 37 years old, Mokwena first led the Buccaneers back in 2019, before moving on to Chippa United and then making waves at Mamelodi Sundowns.

Most recently, he was coaching Wydad AC—but it seems South Africa is calling him back home.

A Coaching Legacy with Deep Pirates Roots

This isn’t just about bringing in a skilled tactician.

Mokwena is football royalty in the Pirates universe.

He’s the son of Julias Sono Hloae and nephew of none other than Pirates legend Ephraim “Jomo” Sono.

That family connection makes his potential return to the club even more significant for fans who cherish the team’s history.

New Team, Familiar Faces

So what’s holding things up? Well, Mokwena isn’t just stepping into a ready-made setup.

He reportedly wants to build his own technical team—just like he did during his stints at both Sundowns and Wydad AC.

Sources say he has already tapped Michael Loftman for the role of assistant coach, and Mandla Ncikazi is expected to stay on in his current assistant role.

It seems Mokwena wants a blend of old and new as he crafts a staff he can trust.

Pirates’ Next Big Move

All eyes are now on the club’s official announcement.

Fans have been waiting anxiously for clarity on who will lead the team into the next season, and Mokwena’s appointment could bring a mix of experience, passion, and a serious desire to build something long-term.

If everything falls into place, we could be looking at a new era for Orlando Pirates—led by a coach who knows exactly what the badge means.v