Rulani Mokwena addresses R1.7 million salary rumours after big-money move to Libya

Rulani Mokwena has addressed the intense speculation surrounding his recent move to Libyan club Al-Ittihad, firmly denying reports that a massive tax-free salary was the primary motivation for his departure from Algerian side MC Alger.

The 39-year-old, who has since been confirmed as the boss of the 18-time Libyan Premier League champions, has been at the centre of rumours suggesting he was offered a net monthly salary of US$100,000 (approximately R1.7 million). However, Mokwena has stated that the figures being circulated are far from accurate.

In an interview with Robert Marawa on Radio 947, the former Mamelodi Sundowns coach explained that his career choices have never been primarily driven by financial gain.

Rulani Mokwena on salary rumours

“I see the numbers, and I just laugh. I sometimes wish that’s what they were offering,” Mokwena said. “If anybody knows me, I worked at Wydad for eight or nine months without a salary. I’m not moved by money, believe me.”

Mokwena’s switch to Tripoli raised eyebrows, as he left MC Alger while they were leading the Algerian league and had already secured the Super Cup. Despite the questions surrounding the move, the coach insists that Al-Ittihad presented a compelling “sporting perspective” that was more attractive than any financial package.

During the interview, Mokwena also offered a candid reflection on his evolving perspective on loyalty in football, suggesting that his past dedication to clubs had not always been reciprocated.

“History has taught me… I was loyal to many a football club in my career, and there was no reward thereafter,” he stated. “Sometimes you have to make decisions not from that perspective.”

What informed move to Libyan giants?

In his new role, Mokwena will reunite with player Thembinkosi Lorch. He views the position as more than just a coaching job, describing it as an opportunity to offer a “helping hand” to a club and community striving to reclaim its past glory amid Libya’s ongoing challenges.

Al-Ittihad SC head coach Rulani Mokwena talks about:

⚽️ The rich history of the club ✅

💯 His ambitions at the club ✅

🗣️ Message to the fans of the club ✅

🎥: Al ittihad SC#AirMobile #BetwayPrem #AbsaFootballFridays pic.twitter.com/6DKPZJUlfK

— SoccerBeat (@SoccerBeatZA) March 18, 2026

“There is a possibility to stretch myself more and challenge ourselves more,” Mokwena explained. He believes that achieving success with one of Libya’s most popular clubs could have a profound impact on the nation. “The opportunity to make a lasting contribution is far more important than people realise.”

As he embarks on this new chapter in North Africa, Mokwena appears focused on building his legacy as a continental coaching force rather than on the financial details of his contract