Extra Time: Michael Madyira writes that letting go of Rhulani Mokwena could be a big mistake for Mamelodi Sundowns.
Mamelodi Sundowns announced on Wednesday that they have parted ways with head coach Rhulani Mokwena.
The Brazilians began pre-season training this week with Manqoba Mngqithi taking charge of the first team.
Sundowns players have also been bidding Mokwena farewell on social media.
His departure is said to have been sparked by a fallout with technical director Flemming Berg.
Differences between Mokwena and Berg are said to have mainly come as a result of player transfers, especially the January signing of Thembinkosi Lorch from Orlando Pirates.
Mokwena’s exit is said to have been exacerbated by losing two Cup finals to Orlando Pirates last season and missing out on the CAF Champions League title.
That outweighs Masandawana claiming a record-extending seventh-consecutive PSL and lifting the first-ever African Football League.
Mokwena took the Sundowns head coach role in October 2022 after several years as the club’s assistant coach and co-trainer.
The Brazilians are now being linked with former Al Ahly and Zamalek coach Patrice Carteron.
The last time Masandawana had a European coach was in December 2012, when Dutchman Johan Neeskens made way for Pitso Mosimane.
Carteron’s name popped up when Benni McCarthy left Manchester United and Pitso Mosimane became available.
If the Frenchman takes over, expectations will be high that he will adapt to Sundowns’ way of doing business and continue on the success path.
The new coach may need help to maintain the standards at Chloorkop if he is to guide them to a Champions League triumph.
The last time a European coach won the PSL title was in 2015, when Stuart Baxter guided Kaizer Chiefs to the league crown.
Pictured above: Outgoing Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rhulani Mokwena.
Source: Mamelodi Sundowns
