‘Highest Paid’ African Coach says Move to Al Ahli Tripoli not Financially Motivated

Rulani Mokwena has defended his decision to leave MC Alger after just eight months to join Al Ahli Tripoli, dismissing claims that the move was motivated by financial gain.

The South African made it clear that money was not a factor behind his decision, revealing that he previously went several months without receiving a salary during his time at Wydad Casablanca.

“I was already being paid at MC Alger, the money isn’t the main motivation.

“Speak to anyone that knows me. I worked at Wydad for eight to nine months without a salary. I am not moved by money.

Rulani Mokwena on Al Ahli’s next Move

“There was a lot more on the table than the financial benefits and people don’t even know. I see the numbers that are being put in the media and I just laugh.

“I wish that was what they were offering, it’s really far from it. I am headed off to Al Ahli Tripoli, let’s wait for the club to make the necessary announcements. They will make it in due course.”

Previously, Mokwena managed Wydad Casablanca before making the switch to MC Alger, where reports suggested he earned around 90,000 dollars per month.

However, the coach has now clarified that he was not paid for several months during his spell in Morocco.

During his time in charge of Wydad, Mokwena oversaw 35 matches before his contract was terminated in 2025.

It remains unclear why Mokwena did not pursue a formal complaint through FIFA despite the reported salary issues.

Under FIFA regulations, a coach is permitted to terminate a contract with just cause if a club fails to meet its financial obligations.

FIFA rules state that if at least two monthly salaries remain unpaid, it constitutes a material breach of contract.

Also read: AFCON 2025 Controversy Belittles It – Drogba

The coach is required to notify the club in writing and allow a 15 day period to settle the outstanding payments.

If the club fails to comply within that timeframe, the coach is entitled to terminate the agreement and seek compensation for unpaid wages as well as the remaining value of the contract.

Clubs found guilty of failing to pay salaries risk sanctions from FIFA, including transfer bans, fines, or points deductions.

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