Orlando Pirates and Rulani Mokwena in Advanced Talks, but Final Details Still Pending

• Orlando Pirates are said to be in talks with former Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena about a potential return to replace Jose Riveiro as their new manager for next season
• The South African tactician has been on the Sea Robbers' radar since he announced his departure from Wydad Athletic Club at the end of the 2024-25 season
• The Soweto giants fans shared their thoughts about the details left to finalised between both parties was unveiled on social media

Orlando Pirates are reportedly advancing talks with Rulani Mokwena over a possible return to the club as the replacement for Jose Riveiro.

The Sea Robbers coaching role is still vacant after Riveiro decided to leave the club for Al Ahly at the end of the 2024-25 season.

Several coaches have been linked with the vacant managerial role at Mayfair, but it seems Mokwena might win the race ahead of others.

Mokwena and Pirates in advance talks

According to iDiskiTimes, the negotiation between Pirates and Mokwena is reportedly at the final stage, but there is a little detail stalling the move at the moment.

Reports have it that the former Mamelodi Sundowns coach has approached Michael Loftman over the possibility of him joining him at Pirates and becoming his assistant, but the Bucs are adamant about keeping Mandla Ncikazi as part of the technical team.

The Soweto giants will need to make a decision soonest as they are already running out of time, with their players resuming for pre-season next week.

Mokwena's decision to bring in his technical team, and assistant coach, and Pirates wanting Ncikazi to join the 37-year-old team sparked online debate among fans.

Reactions as Pirates and Mokwena talks advance

Williams said:

"Loftman shouldn't be expensive to have... And also it wouldn't be the first time we have 2 assistant coaches at the club"

MJMoalusii asked:

"Who is going to take the lead in terms of change management in the team if Mandla is to be released? Who is going to assist Rhulani to settle?"

Once_Twice7 shared:

"Why are trying to give Rulani another chance when his first time at Pirates was a failure rather give Mandla another chance."

OhFlipItsVuyo reacted:

"Pirates under Rulani will play good football. I’m happy they’re considering him. I hope he’ll make a name for himself because he really hasn’t achieved anything significant so far."

Uncle-Al commented

"Why not keep both? Rhulani brings his Sundowns experience. Mandla brings Padre's success. Blend the 2 together, we have a 'monster of a team'"

_Mavuba responded:

"On behalf of Orlando Pirates fans, we welcome him with open arms. Lead us wena Mlungisi to the land of honey and milk."

Rethabilem added:

"[UnPopular Opinion] Sorry Mandla, you don’t suit Pirates 🏴‍☠️ brand, we trying to build a team here unfortunately your not the right man for the job. Please 🙏 Leave, walk away! I’m 100% support Rulani Mokoena, he must be given what he want to avoid bullsh*t later."

Orlando Pirates to face English club

Briefly News also reported that Orlando Pirates are set to face an English League One side as part of their European pre-season tour before the 2025-26 season kicks off.

The Bucs are expected to appoint a new coach and the pre-season will make him get familiar with the players.

Source: Briefly News