Rulani Mokwena Unveiled at MC Alger, Eyes Reunion With Michael Loftman

South African tactician Rulani Mokwena has officially returned to the sidelines after being unveiled as the new head coach of Algerian giants MC Alger on Sunday evening. His appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter following his brief tenure with Moroccan heavyweights Wydad Athletic, and signals MC Alger’s intent as they prepare for an ambitious 2025/26 season, which includes a CAF Champions League campaign.

While fans in Algeria welcomed Mokwena with excitement, there’s already growing interest around the composition of his technical team. Siya sources have revealed that the former Mamelodi Sundowns boss may be looking to bring in a familiar and trusted figure to bolster his backroom staff—analyst and coach Michael Loftman.

Mokwena, known for his attention to detail and preference for building his own coaching structure, is believed to have requested the freedom to assemble his support team—a condition he has previously emphasized when taking on new roles. During his brief spell at Wydad, Mokwena had hoped to replicate the team dynamics he enjoyed at Sundowns, but various logistical challenges limited that possibility.

With his former assistant Sinethemba Badela having since taken the head coach role at Chippa United, the spotlight has turned to Loftman, a coach Mokwena shares a close working history with. The two worked together at Mamelodi Sundowns, where Loftman was initially appointed as a set-piece specialist before being promoted to assistant coach. His tactical insight—particularly in dead-ball situations—earned praise within the club’s inner circle.

Loftman was notably absent during Mokwena’s Wydad tenure, largely due to personal commitments, including his involvement in a developmental project with ABC Motsepe League side Houtbay FC and the completion of his UEFA Pro Licence. Now, with those obligations fulfilled, Siya sources suggest that Mokwena is seriously considering reuniting with him in North Africa.

MC Alger’s return to the CAF Champions League has increased the need for a technically sharp and unified coaching setup, and Mokwena is understood to be intent on surrounding himself with individuals he both knows and trusts. Loftman’s potential arrival would not only boost MC Alger’s tactical preparedness but also reflect Mokwena’s continued commitment to innovation and structure.

As Mokwena settles into his new role, all eyes will be on how he shapes the team both on and off the pitch. With the potential addition of Loftman, MC Alger’s ambitions for continental and domestic glory appear to be taking firm shape.