Rulani Mokwena has officially parted ways with his first player since arriving at MC Alger.
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The South African tactician recently took charge of the reigning Algerian champions and will be looking to maintain – and possibly exceed – the high standards set by the club.
With the team’s pre-season camp in Tunisia now underway, the 38-year-old is taking stock of his squad, assessing which players fit into his plans for the 2025/26 campaign and which do not.
One player he will not be counting on for the upcoming season is Zakaria Draoui. The 12-time capped Algerian international joined MCA in 2024 from Mokwena’s former side, Wydad Athletic Club, and was a pivotal part of the squad's latest league title.
The 31-year-old had previously faced Mokwena-led sides several times during the South African’s tenure at Mamelodi Sundowns. However, with the Johannesburg native now finally getting a chance to work with the central midfielder, that partnership has proven short-lived.
According to Radio Mars, after consultations between the club and its new coach, it was decided that Draoui’s contract would be terminated by mutual consent.
"The Mouloudia management extends its sincere thanks to player Zakaria Draoui for everything he has done for the team during his time with the club, and we wish him success in his future career,” read an official statement released by the club.
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The same report also claims that the agreement was indeed reached on mutual terms, and, according to Transfermarkt, Draoui is now poised to join MCA’s fierce city rivals, USM Algers.
