Mamelodi Sundowns head coach, Rulani Mokwena, has been making waves in South African football.
His achievements with the team have been remarkable, yet he feels that he doesn’t receive the same level of appreciation as other top coaches.
In this article, we delve into Mokwena’s journey, his accomplishments, and the challenges he faces in gaining recognition.
A Season of Triumphs
Mokwena’s tenure at Mamelodi Sundowns has been nothing short of impressive.
Under his leadership, the team secured their seventh successive DStv Premiership title – a remarkable feat.
This achievement came after the departure of Pitso Mosimane, and Mokwena stepped up as the sole head coach, guiding the team to victory.
But it doesn’t end there. Sundowns also clinched the inaugural African Football League title, defeating tough opponents like Petro de Luanda and Al Ahly.
Their journey culminated in a thrilling victory against Wydad Athletic Club in the final.
The Klopp Comparison
Despite these accomplishments, Mokwena can’t help but draw comparisons to Jurgen Klopp’s time at Liverpool.
Klopp, who spent eight years at Liverpool, won both the English Premier League and the Champions League during his tenure.
His parting words emphasized feeling appreciated throughout his journey.
Mokwena reflects on this disparity: “I would love to stay at Sundowns for eight, nine years and do a Pep [Guardiola], a [Jurgen] Klopp.
I love Sundowns. I give my all for the club and for the supporters.” However, he acknowledges that the pressure to win consistently is immense.
He fears that a season without major titles could lead to doubts about his position.
The Pressure Within
Mokwena places immense pressure on himself, striving for excellence day in and day out.
He recognizes that the media occasionally questions his performance, but he remains focused on his commitment to Sundowns.
“If I’m under pressure with my job, what about the people who are 23 points behind us?” he asks, emphasizing his dedication to the team.
Conclusion
Rulani Mokwena’s journey is one of determination, passion, and unyielding commitment.
As he continues to lead Mamelodi Sundowns, he hopes to carve out a legacy akin to Klopp’s – one that transcends titles and resonates with unwavering appreciation from fans and pundits alike.