Insiders reveal that Rulani Mokwena’s insistence on assembling his own technical team became the stumbling block in his potential return to Orlando Pirates. The 37-year-old coach, currently unattached after leaving Mamelodi Sundowns, reportedly lost the Bucs opportunity due to his firm conditions regarding backroom staff.
Sources close to negotiations indicate Mokwena demanded to bring Michael Loftman as his first assistant, while refusing to work with current Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi. This rigid stance allegedly created tension with the Pirates hierarchy, who preferred maintaining continuity in their technical structure.
“Rulani wanted full control over his technical team, but the club wasn’t willing to dismantle their existing setup,” revealed a source familiar with the discussions. “There were also influential figures within the organization who weren’t enthusiastic about his return.”
The breakdown in talks ultimately led Pirates to appoint Abdeslam Ouaddou as their new head coach. Mokwena’s uncompromising position on staffing matters appears to have been the decisive factor, despite his proven track record and intimate knowledge of the club from his previous stint as assistant coach.
This development raises questions about Mokwena’s next career move, as the young tactician remains one of South Africa’s most sought-after coaches following his successful spell with Sundowns. His staffing demands may continue to be a negotiating point with potential suitors.
Pirates fans have expressed mixed reactions, with some praising the club for maintaining their technical structure, while others lament missing out on a coach with deep understanding of the Buccaneers’ culture. The situation highlights the increasing importance of technical team dynamics in modern football appointments.