Mamelodi Sundowns defender breaks silence over Rulani Mokwena’s imminent departure

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The full-back has made his feelings known about the reported exit of the highly-rated tactician

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Khuliso Mudau has become the first player to react to news that coach Rulani Mokwena is set to leave the club.

Mokwena is reportedly in talks to end his spell at Sundowns after falling out with Sporting Director Flemming Berg with the club set to begin a search for his replacement.

That has left some of his players sad with Mudau the first one to break his silence over the development.

The full-back posted a photo of him and Mokwena embracing after winning the PSL title, tagging the coach, while accompanying it with two love emojis on his Instagram story.

Mudau is among players who have flourished under the guidance of Mokwena and will likely not be happy to see him leave.

Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena sets targets for next season
Rulani Mokwena – Photo by Icon Sport

Mudau has become one of the go-to men for Mokwena at Sundowns

The 29-year-old joined Sundowns in 2020 from Black Leopards and has become a key player with his ability to play in different systems making him one of the go-to men for Mokwena.

Mokwena has deployed Mudau either as full-back, when playing with a back four or as a wingback with three at the back, to harness his defensive solidity and attacking quality.

He will, however, have to get used to a new coach following Mokwena’s departure.

Mokwena is said to have felt undermined by Berg who is identifying the players to leave and join the club without the tactician’s input, having questioned some of the talents previously brought in by the 37-year-old.

First team coach Manqoba Mngqithi has been overseeing training as Sundowns prepare for pre-season which will include a tour to Austria with a match against Saudi giants Al-Hilal scheduled on July 26.

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Joel Oliver

Joel Oliver is a seasoned multimedia sports journalist with a rich background in covering diverse football stories and events in South Africa and beyond.

His extensive coverage spans subjects touching on the PSL, with a focus on the Big Three (Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs & Mamelodi Sundowns), Bafana Bafana and Banyana Banyana.