Wydad President Responds to Reports of Unpaid Salaries for Rulani Mokwena and Staff

Wydad Athletic Club president Hicham Ait Menna has reportedly addressed claims that head coach Rulani Mokwena and his technical team have not received their salaries for several months.

The response follows a shocking report from SABC Sport alleging that Mokwena, along with his technical director Allan Freese, assistant coach Sinethemba Badela, and goalkeeper trainer Sean Louw, have gone unpaid for the past eight months.

Unpaid Salary Allegations

Mokwena joined the Moroccan giants in July 2024 after his surprise departure from Mamelodi Sundowns. He was accompanied by his South African colleagues to bolster his technical team at Wydad. However, the transition has been far from smooth, with results failing to meet the high expectations of both the club’s management and supporters.

The situation worsened following Wydad’s recent exit from the Moroccan Throne Cup, further increasing pressure on Mokwena. Reports suggest that frustrations within the club’s hierarchy have grown, with some board members pushing for his dismissal.

According to SABC Sport, not only has Mokwena been working without payment, but he has also been forced to use his own personal equipment for training sessions.

President Denies Claims

Following these startling allegations, Ait Menna has reportedly refuted the claims. According to Moroccan publication Al3omk.Com, the Wydad president dismissed the salary concerns as mere speculation, stating: “Everything being circulated in this regard is a rumour.”

Despite this denial, Wydad has yet to issue an official statement addressing the situation. Meanwhile, it is understood that Mokwena will continue to lead the team until the end of the season.

Uncertain Future for Mokwena

With Wydad struggling to meet their ambitions under Mokwena’s leadership, uncertainty looms over his future at the club. The reported financial dispute, coupled with growing dissatisfaction from the board and fans, places the South African tactician in a precarious position.

Whether Ait Menna’s denial holds weight or if further developments will emerge remains to be seen. For now, Mokwena’s tenure at Wydad continues under mounting scrutiny.