The Premier Soccer League champions, Mamelodi Sundowns and their head coach, Rhulani Mokwena have parted ways by mutual agreement.

The news was expected but still came as a major surprise on the back of Mokwena's success at the club where he won back-to-back PSL titles.

Mokwena had a troubled relationship with the clubs Sporting Director Flemming Berg and this is said to be the main reason he decided to leave the club.

The club confirmed the split on Wednesday afternoon.

“Mamelodi Sundowns and Rhulani Mokwena amicably concluded an agreement bringing to an end Rhulani Mokwena’s employment as head coach. 

“Sundowns wishes to express its gratitude to Rhulani Mokwena for his contribution to the successes and achievements of the Club during his tenure as Head Coach. Rhulani Mokwena will forever be part of the Mamelodi Sundowns Family and the club wishes him all of the very best with his future endeavours. 

“The decision of Mamelodi Sundowns was taken by the Board taking into account the objectives and expectations of the Club and was not influenced or based on the recommendation of any individual associated with the Club.”

This comes days after Mokwena was named as the PSL's Coach of the Year for the 2023/24 season.

Manqoba Mngqithi, who was a co-coach with Mokwena will take over the reins for now, and he has been coaching the team since Tuesday.

Sundowns are preparing for the upcoming league, as well as the historic FIFA Club World Cup that will be taking place in 2025.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport