Former Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena has admitted he would seriously consider returning to Orlando Pirates, and the Siya crew investigates what may be happening behind the scenes.
In an interview with SuperSport, Mokwena, who was recently relieved of his duties at Wydad Athletic, spoke fondly about his previous spell with the Buccaneers and left the door wide open for a potential comeback to Soweto.
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"Of course I would consider it," Mokwena said when asked about the Pirates job.
"Of course I would. It's a big club and it's still got people that are very close to me and to my heart."
Mokwena, who previously served as Pirates' interim coach and assistant before joining Sundowns, holds a deep admiration for club chairman Dr. Irvin Khoza, who he credits as one of the most influential figures in his career.
"I'm very, very fond of Dr. Khoza and he will always have a special place in my heart. I've been fortunate enough that as a coach, I've learned a lot about leadership from a few of the best football leaders on the continent. Dr. Khoza is number one for sure – his general language, history, geography, football – you know, everything."
With Orlando Pirates currently without a coach following the departure of Jose Riveiro to Al Ahly, speculation around the club’s next appointment is mounting.
Mokwena's comments have only added further intrigue to an already tense off-season, as fans begin to wonder whether a dramatic reunion is on the cards. If approached, Mokwena’s return would mark one of the most high-profile coaching homecomings in recent PSL history.
The Siya crew was the first to report that Mokwena is a leading candidate for the Pirates coaching vacancy. Soccer Laduma understands that there hasn't been an agreement between the two parties yet but if they can work it out, there is a high level of respect between them.
It remains to been how much time Bucs will take before making a final decision on the way forward.
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