Mokwena’s heartfelt letter after exiting Mamelodi Sundowns

Published on by Willis Sob

Coach Rhulani Mokwena and the Premier Soccer League defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns recently made a shocking decision to part ways.

The 37-year-old argued he was forced out despite his intent to continue working at Masandawana after helping them win three major titles in his last two seasons as the sole head coach. Afrik-Foot revealed there was a supremacy battle between Mokwena and Flemming Berg who is the club's Sporting Director.

The tactician has now penned a heartfelt letter to the club, players, and fans after the unceremonious exit.

He is happy to have gotten a chance to coach the Brazilians and insisted he did not know the divorce would come that soon.

Rhulani Mokwena

‘I never envisioned this day would come’

In the concluded 2023/24 season, Mokwena won the inaugural African Football League and the PSL crown. En route to winning the league, Downs registered an all-time high of 73 points, eclipsing Pitso Mokwena's 71 set during the 2015/16 campaign.

“I never envisioned this day would come, not so soon anyway, nor did I ever expect to part ways in this manner. But as life often dictates its course, as a stoic I have come to accept that sometimes, endings are just new beginnings in disguise,” Mokwena said in his letter to all associated with Downs.

“To the players, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt tribute and deepest thanks to each and every one of you who have not only excelled in your achievements on the field but have also proven to be amazing individuals off the field.

“The journey I have shared with each one of you has been nothing short of remarkable, from my humble beginnings as a youth coach to leading this incredible team to numerous victories and accolades including those we won while being the club's assistant coach,” Mokwena continued.

“The clouds don't carry enough rain for me to shower you with due praise on how you conducted yourself throughout my tenure. For 91 matches, you gave your all and you always have demonstrated the true meaning of brotherhood, sportsmanship, teamwork, and perseverance.”

The vocal tactician did not fail to acknowledge the fans and their role in helping the team achieve the set objectives.

“Your drum beat, chants, and cheers will forever echo in my memory, a constant reminder of the bond that was growing stronger and stronger by the day. I wish you everything of the best.”

Mokwena will definitely get a new team soon owing to his quality and achievements with the South African outfit.

For Masandawana, a new journey begins under Manqoba Mngqithi, with the first assignment being in Turkey where the Brazilians will play some top teams. 

Mokwena’s heartfelt letter after exiting Mamelodi Sundowns

Willis Sob

Willis Sob is an experienced journalist who has been in the game since 2009, covering major assignments around the continent.
His hunger for African football is unmatched, always getting the best angles and facts to feed the fans and quench their thirst.