Pyramids FC explain decision to appoint Rulani Mokwena as new head coach

Pyramids FC assistant coach Mohamed Nagy Ismail Afash, popularly known as Gedo, has explained that Rulani Mokwena’s extensive experience across African and Arab football was a major factor behind the club’s decision to appoint him as their new head coach.

The Cairo-based club confirmed the arrival of the South African tactician over the weekend after he parted ways with Libyan side Al Ittihad Tripoli earlier this year.

Mokwena, 39, brings significant experience to Pyramids FC, having previously managed clubs in South Africa, Morocco, Algeria and Libya, including a successful spell with Mamelodi Sundowns.

According to Gedo, the coach’s familiarity with African competitions and the football environment in the region made him an ideal choice for the Egyptian giants.

“Mokwena was chosen because of his extensive experience in the Arab and African region,” Gedo told Kora Plus.

“He has been training with the team for two days, and I wish him great success in the coming period. He has great ambition and is very familiar with Egyptian clubs.”

The Pyramids assistant coach also revealed that Mokwena has already begun building a strong relationship with the players, with the squad responding positively to his methods.

“There is great integration of the players with Mokwena, and I hope that we can deliver a great season in all competitions like in previous years,” he added.

Mokwena takes charge of a Pyramids side that has established itself as one of Egypt’s top clubs in recent seasons and will be expected to challenge for major honours.

While rivals Al Ahly have been active in strengthening their squad ahead of the new campaign, Gedo insisted Pyramids are concentrating on their own progress rather than competing in the transfer market.

“Not at all, on the contrary, we only look at ourselves, and I think we don’t need many signings,” he said.

“We have good players. None of them have left except for Fiston Mayele, but the rest of the team is continuing, and they are the ones who achieved the previous accomplishments. God willing, we can achieve our ambitions in the new season.”

Mokwena will now begin preparations for the upcoming season as Pyramids aim to continue their rise domestically and on the African stage.