Snl24 | Mokwena Opens Up On Zungu Pursuit

PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA – MAY 25: Rulani Mokwena and Bongani Zungu during the DStv Premiership match between Mamelodi Sundowns and Cape Town City FC at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on May 25, 2024 in Pretoria, South Africa. (Photo by Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images)

Wydad Casablanca’s coach, Rulani Mokwena, has openly expressed his interest in signing unattached midfielder Bongani Zungu, revealing that negotiations are underway to secure a deal.

Zungu became a free agent after his surprising departure from Mamelodi Sundowns at the end of the last season. In an interview with Marawa Sports Worldwide, Mokwena shared his admiration for Zungu, whom he managed during his tenure at the Brazilians.

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“I can only talk about Zungu, with Zungu we are talking, he has got interest from elsewhere but Zungu is very special. I have known Bongani Zungu for a very long time and he is a very, very good player and he still got a lot to offer and he is a good person too,” Mokwena told Marawa Sports Worldwide.

This personal and professional bond between the player and coach is a significant factor in Wydad Casablanca’s pursuit of Zungu.

Zungu, affectionately known as ‘Ben10’, had a notable stint at Sundowns where he made 30 appearances in all competitions under Mokwena last season. During his second spell with the Tshwane heavyweights, he contributed to their success by winning two league titles and the inaugural African Football League. Mokwena emphasized the importance of character in his recruitment strategy, highlighting Zungu’s personal qualities as much as his professional skills.

“That’s very important for me in working to align and I said that even yesterday to the players – the most important thing for me is to work with good people and that’s very, very important. And Bongs (Zungu) is a very good person, good heart, well raised. Incredible family, incredible mother, incredible siblings.

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“So, he is someone I have a lot of respect for and someone I would love to have here but let’s see whether it’s possible because sometimes it’s got a lot more to do with many other things than just football. So, we are still talking and hopefully something comes up,” Mokwena added.

As Mokwena settles into his new role in North Africa, he has already begun shaping his technical team, which includes Allan Freese, Sinethemba Badela, Sibusiso Makitla, and Sibusiso Mahlangu.

This week marked his first training session with his full technical staff, signaling a new chapter for both him and Wydad Athletic. The potential addition of Zungu to Wydad could significantly bolster the team’s midfield, bringing a blend of experience, skill, and leadership that Mokwena values highly.

As negotiations continue, the football community will be watching closely to see if the reunion materializes.

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