Moeneeb Josephs: Mokwena will struggle to manage Orlando Pirates

Photo Credit - Wydad AC.

Orlando Pirates have begun the search for a new head coach, with several names shortlisted to replace the outgoing Jose Riveiro – including Rulani Mokwena.

The Buccaneers confirmed that Riveiro will leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the current Betway Premiership season. The 49-year-old is set to depart after a successful spell that saw him lead the club to three MTN8 trophies and two Nedbank Cup titles.

With Mokwena set to leave Wydad Casablanca at the end of the season, he has been listed as among Riveiro’s successors. However, according to former Pirates goalkeeper Moeneeb Josephs, Mokwena might not be the best replacement for Riveiro.

“If we’re looking to bring Rulani Mokwena back at Pirates, as good as he is, why should we wear old shoes again?” asked Josephs on Soccer Beat, as quoted by FARPost. “From what I remember, when Mokwena was at Pirates, there were a whole lot of issues and tantrums, and our supporters were not too happy about that.

“It was boiling when he and Micho (Sredojevic) were there, the relationship they had and the way he left, for me, that left a sour taste.”

Pirates are currently chasing silverware on three fronts: the CAF Champions League, the Betway Premiership, and the Nedbank Cup.