Mokwena's return written in stars as Riveiro bids farewell to Pirates

AS José Riveiro prepares to exit the stage, the door swings wide open for a new dawn at Orlando Pirates. Whether by fate or design, Rulani Mokwena could step in seamlessly, offering both fresh energy and the continuity the club craves.

- OBAKENG MELETSE

The former Wydad Athletic Club coach was trusted by the Buccaneers following Milutin Sredojević's sudden departure in the 2019/20 season, when he was appointed interim manager. Mokwena, the nephew of Pirates legend Jomo Sono, took charge for 14 matches, managing four wins, five draws, and five defeats.

His interim spell did not result in a permanent role, and he returned to his assistant position under newly appointed head coach Josef Zinnbauer. The 38-year-old was later loaned to Chippa United for a brief stint.

Still, his departure from Pirates always felt like an intermission rather than a curtain call. Even he never completely closed the door on a return to the club — or even a collaboration with Zinnbauer — but that reunion never materialised.

Instead, his return to Mamelodi Sundowns, under the expert mentorship of Pitso Mosimane, proved a defining moment in his coaching career. Mokwena became a central figure in the club's most dominant era — a foundation so solid that Sundowns are currently on course for an unprecedented eighth consecutive league title and recently reached another CAF Champions League final.

Mokwena rose through the ranks, guiding Sundowns to seven trophies, including four league titles, the Nedbank Cup, the MTN8, and the African Football League, in roles as both co-coach and head coach. He capped off his domestic success with a record for the fewest defeats (one) in a single league season.

However, even that remarkable record could not guarantee long-term security.