It’s every coach’s dream to lead a team on the world stage—and for Rulani Mokwena, that dream was within reach.
But in a twist that no one saw coming, he won’t be at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup after all.
Despite the effort he’s poured into Wydad AC this season, the South African-born coach is set to leave the Moroccan club at the end of the campaign.
This change comes as a major blow, considering Mokwena had hoped to guide Wydad at the expanded tournament in the United States later this year.
Wydad and Mokwena Part Ways After Just One Season
Mokwena’s departure was confirmed by his agent, Steve Kapeluschnik, who revealed that he met with Wydad’s leadership, including club president Hicham Ait Menna, to discuss the coach’s future.
The final decision? Mokwena will remain in charge until the season wraps up—but after that, both parties will respectfully go their separate ways.
“It’s been agreed that regardless of how the remaining games go, Rulani will leave at the end of the season,” Kapeluschnik said, speaking to Hollywoodbets Sports.
A Journey Marked by High Hopes and Harsh Realities
Mokwena arrived at Wydad full of hope. After parting ways with Mamelodi Sundowns—a move that shocked many—he had plans to rebuild and elevate Wydad to new heights, with the Club World Cup firmly in his sights.
Ironically, it was his previous work with Sundowns that helped Wydad secure a place in this prestigious tournament.
But now, someone else will take the reins when the competition kicks off in the U.S. from 16 June to 13 July.
A Tough Pill to Swallow Despite Solid Progress
It’s not like Mokwena didn’t perform. He took over a Wydad side that had finished sixth in the previous season and lifted them to third place with just five matches to go.
And with a strong finish, they still stand a chance of qualifying for the CAF Champions League.
But even with that progress, Wydad’s top brass no longer see Mokwena as the man to lead them forward.
For a coach who’s worked hard to prove himself at every level, it’s a bitter ending to a season filled with potential.
What’s Next for the Ambitious Coach?
The big question now is: what’s next for Rulani Mokwena? He’s still only 38, and with experience at top African clubs and a deep tactical knowledge of the game, his coaching journey is far from over.
Will another big-name team pick him up? Will he stay in North Africa or head back to South Africa? One thing’s certain—his story in football isn’t done yet.