It Was Not Easy”: Mokwena Reveals the Untold Story Behind Signing Lorch and Mailula

BOMBSHELL: RULANI MOKWENA REVEALS WHY SIGNING LORCH AND MAILULA AT WYDAD WAS NOT EASY

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA — 11 NOVEMBER 2026

Former Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena has opened up about the challenges he faced when signing South African stars Thembinkosi Lorch and Cassius Mailula during his time at Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic Club.

Mokwena, who previously worked with both players in South Africa, believes bringing the duo to Morocco was a smart recruitment decision, although the process was far from straightforward.

The coach’s reflections have provided an interesting insight into the thinking behind his recruitment strategy at one of Africa’s most recognised football clubs.

Lorch’s move to Wydad attracted considerable attention among South African football supporters, particularly because of his history with Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns.

The talented attacker joined the Moroccan side on loan from Sundowns in January 2025, reuniting with Mokwena, who understood his qualities and attacking capabilities.

For Lorch, the move represented an opportunity to experience football outside South Africa while continuing his career under a coach familiar with his strengths.

Mailula’s arrival was another significant decision.

The young forward had previously made a name for himself at Sundowns before securing a move to Major League Soccer side Toronto FC. However, his time in North America did not develop as expected, creating an opportunity for a fresh start in Morocco.

Mokwena saw potential in bringing Mailula into his Wydad project, believing the attacker could offer valuable qualities in the final third.

His familiarity with both footballers was an important factor, but securing their services still required careful consideration.

The two signings also demonstrated Mokwena’s willingness to explore the South African market when searching for players capable of strengthening his squad.

Interestingly, the coach’s recruitment decisions were not simply about bringing familiar faces into his dressing room. They were based on understanding what each player could contribute to the team’s ambitions.

Although his time at Wydad eventually came to an end, the decisions to recruit Lorch and Mailula remain an interesting part of his coaching journey.

For South African football, their Moroccan experience highlighted the opportunities available to local players beyond the Betway Premiership.

Mokwena’s latest reflections also underline one important reality about football management: identifying talented players is one thing, but successfully convincing them to join a project is an entirely different challenge.

His admission that signing Lorch and Mailula was not easy offers a fascinating glimpse into the work behind two major South African transfers.

Source https://x.com/Soccer_Laduma/status/2120418812231065925

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