Rulani Mokwena Reportedly Misses Out on R18 Million Payout After Wydad Exit

South African coach Rulani Mokwena has reportedly forfeited a $1 million (approximately R18 million) compensation payout following the mutual termination of his contract with Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic Club. According to Moroccan outlet LeSite Info, the former Wydad boss signed an official contract termination agreement after his departure was confirmed several weeks ago.

Despite speculation surrounding the terms of his exit, it is now reported that Mokwena will only receive payment for outstanding dues, including his salary for the months of May and June as well as agreed-upon match bonuses. The report further claims that the lucrative $1 million payout was contingent on Mokwena leading Wydad to win the Throne Cup or securing a top-two finish in the 2024/25 Botola Pro 1 season.

Wydad ultimately ended the season in third place, meaning Mokwena did not meet the contractual performance clauses required to trigger the bonus payment. The outcome marks a disappointing end to his brief tenure in Morocco, where expectations had been high upon his arrival from Mamelodi Sundowns.

Mokwena’s spell at Wydad was met with mixed results, and his exit was widely anticipated following the club’s underwhelming finish in the domestic league. Though he is regarded as one of the most tactically astute coaches in African football, the results did not align with the financial and competitive ambitions of the Casablanca-based club.

With Mokwena officially out, Wydad have confirmed that Amine Benhachem will take over as the club’s new permanent head coach. Previously serving as the club’s sporting director, Benhachem will now lead the technical bench on a deal that is expected to run until June 2027. His new role reportedly includes improved financial terms as Wydad aims to restore its dominance in domestic and continental football.

While Mokwena’s stint in Morocco ends without silverware or the financial windfall tied to success, his future remains a topic of interest in African football circles. Whether he returns to coaching in South Africa or explores other international opportunities, Mokwena is expected to be back in the dugout soon, given his strong reputation across the continent.