“Mokwena is the right coach to reshape Orlando Pirates” – Vilakazi

Orlando Pirates legend Benedict Vilakazi has suggested that his former club should rope in the services of young, yet experienced coach Rulani Mokwena when he leaves Morocco outfit Wydad Athletic Club.

The 38-year-old is not new to Pirates, having previously handled the club as an assistant and as an interim head coach in 2019 before leaving to join Chippa United for a brief spell.

Mokwena is billed to leave the Botola League side at the end of the current season after struggling and failing to lift any trophy with the Red Castle.

Vilakazi, who played for the Buccaneers for eight seasons between 1999 and 2007, believes the former Mamelodi Sundowns trainer will be the right manager to reshape Pirates.

“I’m not suggesting this just because Rulani might have unfinished business with Pirates. He is the only candidate available after the issues he’s facing at Wydad. Rulani is a good coach and I believe he can elevate Orlando Pirates to the next level,” Vilakazi said.

“At Wydad, the challenge is that North African teams tend not to believe in development. They focus on immediate results."

“Coach Rulani prefers to nurture and develop his own team, which has led to a conflict with the Wydad management. They want ready-made players who can deliver results instantly."

“While they appreciate South African coaches, they don’t fully understand that our approach requires patience to build a strong and sustainable team over the years,” Vilakazi told Kickoff.

Mokwena’s time at Sundowns was very successful, winning four league titles (including during his time as co-coach) and one African Football League in 2023.

Pirates will equally part ways with Spanish coach Jose Riveiro at the end of the season.