Al-Ittihad SC have confirmed the appointment of Rulani Mokwena as their new head coach, following the South African’s recent departure from MC Alger.
The announcement, made on Tuesday, comes just days after Mokwena parted ways with MC Alger, marking a swift transition for the 39-year-old into a new role in the Libyan Premier League.
Reports indicate he has agreed to a two-year contract with an option to extend, signalling the club’s intention to build stability as they pursue domestic success.
Al-Ittihad are currently engaged in a competitive title race, sitting six points behind league leaders Al Ahly Tripoli.
However, they have two matches in hand, offering an opportunity to close the gap and potentially move level or beyond their rivals depending on results.
Mokwena’s arrival is therefore seen as a strategic move at a critical stage of the season, with the club aiming to capitalise on their favourable position in the standings.
The South African coach will also reconnect with familiar players in his new role. Thembinkosi Lorch and Stéphane Aziz Ki are both part of the Al-Ittihad squad, having previously worked under Mokwena at Wydad Casablanca.
Their prior relationship with the coach is expected to aid continuity and potentially accelerate the implementation of his tactical approach.
Mokwena’s move to Libya, however, was not without complication. His arrival in Tripoli was delayed after he was detained at Houari Boumediene Airport in Algeria on Sunday.
According to reports, the issue arose after he was found to be carrying an amount of physical cash exceeding permitted limits.
He subsequently appeared before the Dar El Beida Court, where he was handed a two-month suspended prison sentence. Following the legal proceedings, he was cleared to continue his journey, allowing him to complete the move and take up his new position.
Despite the off-field disruption, the focus now shifts to Mokwena’s task on the pitch. With Al-Ittihad firmly in contention and holding games in hand, expectations will be high for the new coach to deliver immediate results.
The club’s ambition to challenge for the league title places added importance on how quickly he can settle and make an impact.
His appointment represents a new chapter both for the coach and the club. For Mokwena, it offers an opportunity to re-establish momentum after his departure from MC Alger, while for Al-Ittihad, it is a calculated decision aimed at strengthening their push for silverware.
As the Libyan Premier League season approaches its decisive phase, attention will be on whether Mokwena can translate his experience into success and guide Al-Ittihad to the top of the standings.
