Highly-rated South African tactician Rulani Mokwena has officially been appointed as the new head coach of Mouloudia Club d’Alger, the reigning Algerian Ligue 1 and Super Cup champions.
Mokwena’s return to the dugout marks a significant move for one of Africa’s most promising young coaches, as he takes the reins of a club with high aspirations, particularly in continental competition.
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The 38-year-old succeeds Tunisian coach Khaled Ben Yahia, whose short-term contract concluded at the end of last season. Mokwena arrives in Algiers following a recent stint with Moroccan giants Wydad AC, a period that saw him depart after the club failed to secure qualification for the prestigious CAF Champions League.
Prior to his time in Morocco, Mokwena was a prominent figure at South African powerhouse Mamelodi Sundowns, where he built a reputation for his tactical acumen and innovative coaching style.
A Highly Sought-After Talent
Despite his departure from Wydad, Mokwena’s stock remained incredibly high across the African football landscape.
He was reportedly a prime target for several top clubs, including Egyptian heavyweights Pyramids FC and Zamalek SC, his former club Orlando Pirates in South Africa, Qatari side Al Shahaniya, and even a club from Saudi Arabia’s Yelo League.
This intense interest underscores his standing as one of the continent’s most coveted coaching talents.
Continental Ambitions and Renewed Rivalries
A key draw for Mokwena at MC Alger will undoubtedly be the opportunity to compete in the CAF Champions League. The Algerian giants are set to return to Africa’s premier club competition this season, a stage where Mokwena will be keen to make a significant impact.
Interestingly, MC Alger reached the quarter-finals of the last edition of the Champions League, where they were narrowly eliminated by Orlando Pirates – a club with which Mokwena has deep ties.
His arrival also sets the stage for exciting renewed rivalries within the Algerian Ligue 1. Mokwena is now set to go head-to-head with former TS Galaxy coach Sead Ramovic, whose tactical battles against Mokwena’s Sundowns were often highlights in the South African topflight.
Furthermore, another familiar face from the South African coaching scene, former Orlando Pirates mentor Josef Zinnbauer, is also plying his trade in the Algerian league with JS Kabylie, adding another layer of intrigue to the upcoming season.
Mokwena’s appointment signals MC Alger’s clear intent to not only maintain their domestic dominance but also to establish themselves as a formidable force on the African continent. Can Mokwena replicate his past successes and lead MC Alger to continental glory? Only time will tell.