Rulani Mokwena explains why MC Alger is his toughest test yet

South African coaching sensation Rulani Mokwena has declared his current position as head coach of Algerian giants MC Alger as his most demanding role to date, eclipsing high-profile stints at Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, and Moroccan powerhouse Wydad AC.

The 38-year-old tactician, who joined the Algiers-based club at the beginning of the current season after a spell with Wydad, is currently enjoying a phenomenal start in the Algerian Ligue Professionnelle 1.

Mokwena’s tactical acumen was on full display over the weekend, guiding his side to a crucial 1-0 victory over El Bayadh at the Stade Zakaria Medjdoub, a result that propelled MC Alger back to the summit of the Algerian top-flight.

The club’s domestic form has been exceptional: they have secured seven wins and one draw in their first eight league matches, dropping points only in the derby against USM Alger. Furthermore, Mokwena successfully navigated the team into the highly competitive CAF Champions League group stages, where they face a challenging draw alongside Sudan’s Al Hilal, his former club Sundowns, and DRC’s FC Lupopo.

‘The Hardest Job I’ve Done’: Rulani Mokwena on MC Alger Task

Speaking to members of the South African Football Journalists Association (SAFJA) via Zoom on Wednesday, Mokwena did not mince words about the scale of the challenge he has embraced in North Africa.

“This has been an incredible, educational challenge, and something I’ve really enjoyed, even though I must say this is probably my hardest job,” he stated.

Mokwena elaborated on the multifaceted nature of football management in Algeria, explaining why it surpasses his previous roles in complexity:

Holistic Management: “This is the hardest job that I’ve done from many different aspects of football management.”

Comprehensive Scope: “This job encompasses the technical, psychological, political and managerial sides of it.”

Administrative Burden: He cited the necessity of dealing with various stakeholders, including “the players to the staff, the management, the president and dealing with the administrative issues. And managing the facility, dealing with logistics…”

Despite the immense difficulty, the Soweto-born coach remains positive, acknowledging the support from his trusted technical team.

A Familiar Bench

Rulani Mokwena has brought in a core group of familiar and seasoned professionals to support him in Algiers: Wendell Robinson, a Revered goalkeeper coach. Sibusiso Mahlangu: Conditioning coach. Enzo Donis: Assistant coach, previously serving the Togo national team. The 29-year-old brings vast international experience, having worked in France, Belgium, Spain, and the DRC.

Mokwena’s success at MC Alger is now being closely watched across the continent as he attempts to translate domestic dominance into continental glory.