Milutin ‘Micho' Sredojevic, former mentor to Rulani Mokwena, has sent a message of support and advice following the latter's appointment as head coach of Wydad Casablanca.
Mokwena was an assistant coach to Micho at Orlando Pirates between 2017 and 2019. He then took over as an interim coach when the Serbian tactician left the Buccaneers to take up head coach role at Zamalek SC.
Knowing Mokwena's strong work ethic and coaching acumen from their time together at Pirates, Micho believes the 37-year-old possesses the qualities necessary to revitalize the Moroccan giants after their disappointing 2023/24 season.
However, Micho candidly acknowledged that Mokwena should anticipate even greater pressure at Wydad compared to what he faced at Sundowns and Pirates.
He reminded Mokwena that Wydad fans are fervent supporters during successful periods but can quickly turn hostile when results decline.
MICHO SREDOJEVIC GIVES ADVICE TO RULANI MOKWENA
“It is unfortunate that Rulani didn't continue with his journey with Mamelodi Sundowns,” Milutin ‘Micho' Sredojevic told KickOff.
“It is not mine to mix with that (what happened at Sundowns). However, a coach of his magnitude has immediately gotten a job with Wydad Casablanca after they had a disastrous season, finishing sixth in the league.
“I believe that Rulani is going to practically revive and return the pride of Wydad back having the Botola Pro, Throne Cup and Arab Champions League.
“I really wish him all the best and he needs to understand that he is coming to a different culture, tradition, and style of life, different understanding of life and football.
“Wydad supporters are extremely passionate and will be with you when things are going well but are against you when things are not going well.
“The pressure of being at Pirates and Sundowns is something that he needs to multiply by five.
“This is the pressure that he will feel with Wydad, but having in mind his coaching acumen, work ethic, coaching qualities, I have no doubt that he will succeed to carry the pressure, strain and tension that goes with coaching such a big team.
“I have no doubt that he will revive their fortunes from last season when they had a disastrous season and I have no doubt that he will do his best in order to put a stamp.
“This is his first challenge to go out of the country and he knows very well that it is totally different to coaching in South Africa, where you are at home and a darling of everyone.
“Then going there (Morocco), where you are in the storm of pressure and tension, is different because it is a totally different culture and style of life, habits and understanding of the game.
“I wish him all the best in the challenge that he is taking, and I have no doubts in his qualities.
“I'm sure the new president will provide him with everything, and I'm convinced that he and his technical will succeed in the mission to provide the best possible product, which is good football and results to make the Wydad fans happy.”
