Rulani Mokwena eyes long-term progress as he begins rebuild at Al Ittihad SC

Al Ittihad SC head coach Rulani Mokwena has outlined his vision for building a competitive side in Libya, emphasizing patience, consistency, and a structured development process.

The 39-year-old, who joined the club in mid-March following his departure from Algerian outfit MC Alger, has already spent several weeks working with the squad.

His early preparations included a training camp in Morocco, aimed at sharpening the team ahead of the league’s resumption.

With expectations high due to his growing reputation, Mokwena has been careful to stress a team-first philosophy and gradual improvement rather than quick fixes.

“I am very happy to be here. The team is ambitious with quality players, but the team is the star, not individuals,” Mokwena told the club’s media department.

“In this short period, we cannot change everything. My focus is on improving details, because they make the difference. What impressed me most is the players’ willingness to learn and work hard. This is just the beginning, and we are still getting to know them.

“In the training camp, we focused on compactness, positioning, and pressing, with small adjustments in distances, timing, and actions. Identity cannot be built in five days, it needs consistency and repetition.

“What we see now are early signs. The players are responding well, but reaching the desired level takes time, which is the biggest challenge,” explained the former Mamelodi Sundowns mentor.

“Mentally, we are working on responsibility. Playing without fans is not easy, so motivation must be stronger and standards consistent. The training camp was an important first step and gave us a clear idea of what to improve,” he added.

“Finally, to the fans, we will work with humility and effort. We promise commitment and a team that fights for the badge.”

Looking ahead, Mokwena struck a hopeful tone while appealing to supporters for patience and support as the project unfolds.

“To the fans, we will work with humility and effort. We promise commitment and a team that fights for the badge,” he added.