South African coach Rulani Mokwena takes over Libyan giants Al-Ittihad

South African tactician Rulani Mokwena has been appointed as the new head coach of Libyan giants Al-Ittihad, marking a historic move for the decorated manager.

The 39-year-old signed a lucrative two-and-a-half-year contract with the Tripoli-based club, becoming the first South African to lead a major team in the Libyan Premier League.

The appointment comes as Al-Ittihad looks to consolidate its dominance in domestic football while expanding its footprint in continental competitions.

Mokwena arrives in Libya following a highly successful, albeit brief, stint at Algerian side MC Alger, where he recently secured the 2025 Algerian Super Cup. His rapid transition across North African leagues has solidified his reputation as one of the continent’s most sought-after coaching talents since his departure from Mamelodi Sundowns in 2024.

Mokwena’s arrival in Tripoli is bolstered by a sense of familiarity, as he reunites with several key players he previously managed at Wydad AC. The signings of playmaker Thembinkosi Lorch and midfielder Stéphane Aziz Ki by Al-Ittihad were seen as a precursor to Mokwena’s arrival, suggesting a long-term strategic alignment between the coach and the club’s ambitious board of directors.

The financial terms of the deal reflect the high regard in which Mokwena is held; reports indicate the total package could be worth up to $1.68 million over the duration of the contract. This investment underscores the club’s desire for a modern, tactical overhaul as they aim for sustained success both at home and in the CAF Champions League.

Replacing Tunisian coach Khaled Ben Yahia, Mokwena inherits a squad currently sitting at the top of the league standings. His immediate mandate will be to maintain that momentum while implementing his trademark possession-based philosophy.