Orlando Pirates have yet to announce their head coach for next season after the exit of Spaniard Jose Riveiro, who led the team to five domestic trophies during his three years in charge.
Among the names rumored to be in the running is former Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena. Recently dismissed by Wydad Athletic, the PSL title winner is currently a free agent.
But Mokwena isn’t only attracting interest from Pirates. Egyptian giants Zamalek are also reportedly eyeing him.
Both Pirates and Zamalek are interested in Mokwena and Pitso Mosimane for their coaching vacancies. However, Mokwena has made it clear he won’t go head-to-head with Mosimane for the same job.
Speaking on SuperSport’s Africa Soccer show, Mokwena said,
“After hearing that coach Pitso was also a candidate for the position at Zamalek, I didn’t hear back from them. Out of respect for Pitso and our relationship, I decided not to compete for the role.”
He added,
“It wouldn’t feel right to compete with him, so I stepped aside and said they should give it to him.”
“My agent said, ‘But this is a big club,’ but my respect for Pitso and everything he has done for my career stopped me from pursuing it.”
Fiston Mayele Update
Orlando Pirates target Fiston Mayele is set to leave Pyramids FC this offseason. The only question now is where he will land next, with multiple clubs reportedly chasing the prolific striker.
According to Egyptian media,
“Mayele’s time with Pyramids will end after the Egypt Cup final against Zamalek.”
“He has received offers exceeding $3 million (about R55 million) and going up to $4 million (around R74 million) per season. Currently, he earns $1 million per season at Pyramids but is refusing to renew.”
The report also noted,
“Pyramids appreciate Mayele’s contributions—he was the top scorer in the CAF Champions League and played a key role in their title win.”
