Rulani Mokwena set for crunch talks, Wydad in contract breach

The two parties are now at a crossroads with a decision to be taken this week on whether Mokwena leaves with immediate effect or sees out the remaining five matches in the Botola Pro League. 

Wydad appointed Mokwena in July last year shortly after his surprise exit at Mamelodi Sundowns was confirmed – and given the euphoria when the coach landed in Casablanca it appeared a match made in heaven.

But the 38-year-old mentor is understood to have found the conditions far from rosy, especially with his salary since his arrival yet to be paid.

The public broadcaster has it on good authority that Mokwena has also had to dip into his own pocket for additional equipment.

It’s believed the backroom staff he recruited to join him in Morocco – veteran coach Allan Freese, Sinethemba Badela and goalkeeper coach Sean Louw – have also not been paid to date.

READ: Jose Riveiro vows to fight till the end

Mokwena, according to information gathered by SABC Sport, has not yet given his representatives the greenlight to approach FIFA and address the breach of contract by his employer Wydad Athletic Club, although the coach been advised to do so.

The former Orlando Pirates and Chippa United mentor signed a deal with the Moroccan giants until June 2027 but has faced backlash a few months into the job with fans demanding the championship.

RS Berkane clinched the title with seven games to spare last month, but Mokwena still has a chance to secure a CAF Champions League or Confederation Cup slot for Wydad in the fixtures that remain.

There was another blow out with supporters last weekend when the Red Castle were knocked out of the Throne Cup in the round of 16 by MA Tetouan – bringing Mokwena’s future into question yet again.

It’s understood his representatives will make their way to Casablanca for crunch talks and if the coach opts to stay on then the club will have to make a commitment to settling their debt or face FIFA.

Wydad appointed Mokwena while under a transfer ban but were able to make payment just in time to have it lifted and sign an unbelievable 22 players!