Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena, considered one of Africa’s top tacticians, surprisingly hinted he might not be coaching in five years.

Mokwena, 37, discussed the possibility of leading a national team in the future. He has been with Sundowns for over eight years in two stints, serving in various roles before becoming head coach in October 2022.

In his first full season, Mokwena led the Brazilians to the inaugural African Football League title and the DStv Premiership championship, narrowly missing an invincible league season. They also reached the MTN8 and Nedbank Cup finals, losing both to Orlando Pirates. Across all competitions, Mokwena oversaw 58 games, winning 38, drawing 12, and losing eight. He capped off a remarkable campaign by winning the 2023/24 DStv Premiership Coach of the Season award.

Speaking to Moroccan journalists on L’vestiaire, Mokwena addressed the prospect of transitioning from club football to a national team with a less demanding schedule.

“South Africa has a national team coach (Hugo Broos) and he is doing very well. We have to support him,” joking said. 

“Do I think I will coach the national team? I don’t know. I don’t know if I will coach for the next five years. I might retire sooner than people think.”  

Despite his desire for more club trophies, Mokwena doesn’t completely rule out a future national team role.

“Maybe later in my career, towards the end. I have too much passion and energy.  

“I want to be on the pitch and I have too many ideas in my head which sometimes I want to share with the players,” he said.  

“Sometimes I don’t know whether they are right or wrong ideas, so I think I have too much energy for a national team job at the moment. But you never know, look at Julian Nagelsmann, as young as he is, and what he is doing with the German national team.”  

Mokwena acknowledged the recognition he receives in North Africa but emphasized his happiness at Sundowns. “I’m very happy at Sundowns, with the players, and humbled by the recognition in North Africa,” he said. “The fans of Wydad Casablanca and Al Ahly have shown me immense love and respect.”

Article by Trevor Magoro