Mamelodi Sundowns Set for Coach Shake-Up as Rulani Mokwena's Exit Looms

2 July 2024

Mamelodi Sundowns Facing Major Coaching Changes

The horizon looks turbulent for Mamelodi Sundowns as they prepare for a significant change in their coaching staff. Head coach Rulani Mokwena is reportedly set to part ways with the club, despite having a highly successful season. Sources within the team have indicated that Mokwena's departure is imminent, to the surprise of many fans and observers of South African soccer.

Having clinched the DStv Premiership title with a record points total, as well as winning the inaugural African Football League, Mokwena's first full season in charge of Sundowns showed promise and achievement. However, it appears that fulfilling on-field successes was not enough to secure his stay. Internal dynamics and disagreements have come to the forefront, leading to the decision to seek a new direction for the team.

Internal Disagreements

Insiders have revealed that while Mokwena delivered impressive results, his failure to completely meet all set targets was a key factor in the decision to make a change. Among the prominent reasons cited for this parting is a strained relationship with Sundowns' Sporting Director Flemming Berg. The duo reportedly clashed on several critical issues, including the team’s style of play and transfer strategies, leading to growing tensions.

This fracture in the team’s leadership dynamic appears to have influenced the overall review of the season, ultimately tilting the scales against Mokwena. The club's hierarchy had outlined specific objectives and expectations, some of which they felt were not fully achieved under Mokwena’s tenure.

Settlement and Absence

This weekend, Mokwena was offered a settlement, indicating the seriousness of the club’s decision to transition away from his leadership. Notably, he was conspicuously absent from the arrivals of the first team at Chloorkop for the start of pre-season training. This absence further solidifies the reports of his imminent departure and signals that preparations are already underway for the forthcoming season without him.

The Way Forward for Sundowns

As the club navigates this unexpected change, it is expected that Manqoba Mngqithi will step in to oversee the squad during the pre-season period. Mngqithi, who has substantial experience and familiarity with the team, is viewed as a safe pair of hands to ensure continuity and stability as the club looks forward to the new campaign.

In addition to Mokwena’s departure, there have been other notable changes within Sundowns' staff. Long-serving performance analyst Dayle Solomons has also been released from his duties following the expiration of his contract. These internal shifts hint at broader strategic changes within the club, as they aim to recalibrate and reposition themselves for the future.

Looking Ahead

Mokwena’s exit arrives just one season into his new four-year contract, illustrating the often unpredictable and demanding nature of football management. Fans will be keenly watching the developments and announcements expected this week, contemplating what the future holds for both Mokwena and Mamelodi Sundowns.

The sporting community will be speculating on Mokwena’s next move and interested in potential suitors who might capitalize on his recent successes. Meanwhile, Sundowns will be keen to swiftly find a replacement who can meet the club's high standards and align with their long-term vision for success on both domestic and international stages.

A Critical Juncture

This moment represents a critical juncture for Mamelodi Sundowns. While the decision to part ways with a successful coach might seem perplexing to some, it underscores the club’s unwavering ambition and the high standards they set for themselves. As the club gears up for the next season, the focus will undoubtedly be on assembling a team and managerial lineup capable of not only maintaining but surpassing the recent successes achieved under Mokwena’s guidance.

The coming weeks will be pivotal as the club’s hierarchy makes strategic decisions, and fans brace for the changes ahead. The anticipation and curiosity surrounding these developments make this ongoing story one to watch closely in the world of sports.