New Chippa United coach Sinethemba Badela credits Mokwena for his career growth

Photo Credit - Wydad Casablanca.

Newly appointed Chippa United coach Sinethemba Badela has praised former Mamelodi Sundowns and Wydad Casablanca coach Rulani Mokwena for his growth and development in his coaching career.

Badela was announced as the new coach of the Chilli Boys following his departure from Wydad AC. He took over from Thabo September, who left the club with his contract set to expire at the end of June 2025.

"I'll forever be grateful for the opportunity to have worked with Coach Rulani. He is someone who is very special to me, I don't think I would be here talking to you if I did not have Rulani guiding me in my career," said Badela, as quoted by SABC Sports:

On taking over at Chippa, the 35-year-old from Sterkpruit explained: "I see this as an exciting challenge, and not as a daunting experience. I would like to thank the chairman of the club for believing in me, and for trusting me with such a big responsibility."

Badela spent last season as Mokwena's assistant coach at Wydad, gaining valuable international experience with one of Africa's most decorated clubs. He also worked at Sundowns as their Diski Challenge (reserves) head coach during Mokwena's tenure as the club's mentor.

This is his first appointment as a head coach in top-flight football, having previously worked in the Motsepe Foundation Champions (second division).

While the length of his contract was not disclosed, the club stated that additional members of his technical team will be announced in due course.