A familiar name is swirling in the Orlando Pirates rumour mill. The Soweto giants might be considering Rulani Mokwena as their new coach. The Buccaneers are currently without a permanent mentor after the club confirmed the departure of Jose Riveiro. The Spaniard transformed the Buccaneers into a formidable force. He won five domestic trophies and reached the CAF Champions League semi-finals, leaving big shoes to fill. Speculation is intensifying about Mokwena’s potential return to the Soweto giants.
Mokwena is currently a free agent after recently parting ways with Moroccan powerhouse Wydad Casablanca. Taking over in mid-2024, he guided Wydad to a third-place finish in the Botola Pro League. Trailing champions RSB Berkane by 18 points. The team also suffered a shock exit in the Moroccan Throne Cup, losing 1-0 to Moghreb Atlético Tétouan, crushing their silverware hopes. Mokwena’s tenure was marked by scrutiny. It included a string of draws and failure to qualify for the CAF Champions League, sealing his departure. Despite these setbacks, his previous success at Mamelodi Sundowns cannot be denied. He won four PSL titles, the Nedbank Cup, the MTN8, and the African Football League.
He previously served as an assistant coach at Orlando Pirates and had a spell as interim head coach between August and December 2019. During that caretaker period, he oversaw 14 matches, securing 4 wins, 5 draws, and 5 losses. While his interim tenure didn’t yield silverware, many believe he has since matured.
The prospect of Rulani Mokwena returning to Orlando Pirates is a tantalising one for many. His proponents point to his deep understanding of South African football, his tactical acumen, and his connection to the club. They believe he has “unfinished business” and could be the dynamic, modern coach to lead the Buccaneers back to consistent domestic and continental glory.
As Orlando Pirates continue their search, with assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi currently holding the fort on an interim basis, the speculation surrounding Rulani Mokwena’s potential return will undoubtedly intensify. Whether the “prodigal son” will once again patrol the Orlando Stadium touchline remains to be seen. But it’s a rumour that has firmly captured the imagination of the PSL.