‘I Just Laugh’ - Rulani Mokwena Addresses Rumoured Multi-Million Tax-Free Salary in Libya

Coach Rulani Mokwena has publicly addressed the widespread speculation surrounding his recent appointment at Libyan club Al-Ittihad, dismissing reports that a lucrative, tax-free salary was the driving force behind his departure from Algerian side MC Alger.

The 39-year-old tactician was recently unveiled as the new head coach of the 18-time Libyan Premier League champions. His move sparked rumours of a staggering net monthly salary of US$100,000 (around R1.7 million or Ksh13 million), but Mokwena has insisted these figures are grossly exaggerated.

Speaking to Robert Marawa on Radio 947, the former Mamelodi Sundowns coach clarified that his career decisions have never been motivated by money.

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“I see the numbers, and I just laugh. I sometimes wish that’s what they were offering," Mokwena stated. "If anybody knows me, I worked at Wydad for eight or nine months without a salary. I’m not moved by money, believe me."

Mokwena's switch to Tripoli came as a surprise, as he left MC Alger while the team was at the top of the Algerian league table and had already won the Super Cup. Despite the controversy, the coach maintains that Al-Ittihad offered a compelling "sporting perspective" that outweighed any financial considerations.

During the interview, Mokwena also shared a frank reflection on his views about loyalty in the football world, noting that his past commitment to clubs was not always returned in kind.

"History has taught me… I was loyal to many a football club in my career, and there was no reward thereafter," he said. "Sometimes you have to make decisions not from that perspective."

At Al-Ittihad, Mokwena will once again work with player Thembinkosi Lorch. He sees his new role as more than just a coaching position, describing it as a chance to lend a "helping hand" to a club and a community aiming to restore its former prominence amidst Libya's ongoing struggles.

"There is a possibility to stretch myself more and challenge ourselves more," Mokwena explained. He believes that bringing success to one of Libya's most beloved clubs could have a significant positive impact on the entire nation. "The opportunity to make a lasting contribution is far more important than people realise."

As he begins this new venture in North Africa, Mokwena seems determined to cement his legacy as a top-tier continental coach, with his focus firmly on the project ahead rather than the figures in his contract.