Agent confirms mutual separation following Throne Cup elimination and league struggles
Wydad Athletic Club and South African head coach Rulani Mokwena have reached an agreement to part ways at the conclusion of the current Botola Pro season, following crisis talks between club leadership and the coach’s representatives.
The decision comes after Tuesday’s meeting between Mokwena’s agent Steve Kapelushnik and club president Hicham Ait Menna, where both parties agreed the 37-year-old tactician would see out the remaining five matches of the campaign before departing.
“President Hisham and I had transparent discussions,” Kapelushnik told Radio Mars. “We agreed Rulani will continue professionally until season’s end, then leave respectfully.”
Mokwena’s position became untenable following:
• Shock Throne Cup elimination to Moghreb Atlético Tetuán
• Four consecutive league draws damaging CAF Champions League qualification hopes
• Recent drop out of Botola Pro’s top two
The club has already begun restructuring, quietly appointing Amine Benhachem as new sports director during Tuesday’s training session at the Wellness Complex. While Wydad hasn’t officially announced Benhachem’s hiring, sources confirm he’s taken immediate charge ahead of this weekend’s crucial Casablanca derby against Raja.
Mokwena, who joined Wydad in 2023 after success with Mamelodi Sundowns, saw his project unravel amid growing pressure from supporters and management. His agent emphasized there was no acrimony in the separation: “The president could’ve terminated immediately, but both sides chose the professional path.”
With Wydad’s continental ambitions hanging by a thread, all eyes now turn to how Mokwena navigates his final matches, including the high-stakes derby that could define his North African legacy. The search for his replacement is expected to intensify in coming weeks.