Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Rulani Mokwena says he has a superb relationship with Pitso Mosimane, who he calls “a mentor” and “close family friend”.
Mokwena saw his side extend their record-breaking winning run to 14 successive victories in the DStv Premiership after beating in-form Sekhukhune United 2-0 earlier on Saturday.
The 36-year-old has been the sole head coach in nine of those wins, setting a new record for the most successful start to a head-coaching career at the club – something not even the great Pitso Mosimane was able to achieve.
After his side’s win, Mokwena was asked about recent praise he received from Mosimane amid the ongoing discussion around Financial Fair Play in the Premier Soccer League.
“I can only speak in glowing terms [of him], I know South Africa would love for it to be a spicy relationship,” he said.
“But people don’t know, I consider coach Pitso not just a mentor but a father figure, for sure, because he played with my father, they shared the pitch.
“He’s a very close family friend, he’s a Sundowns man. He’s done so much for this football club and regarded for sure and rightfully so as an icon and will down in the history books of this club.
“I was listening to Arteta speak about Pep. I could go on and one and run out of superlatives, because he’s taught me a lot and for that I’ll be extremely grateful, for the support and education he’s embedded in my career.
“I’m only humbled that he can say what he says, but he knows also the influence that he’s imparted on my career and for that I’ll always be grateful.
“I don’t think I would be where I am today without the role that he’s played. He knows that, though. People have to be given their flowers while they still can and I don’t shy away from telling him.
“I know people would love for it [our relationship] to be spicy, but it’s far from that, it’s very far from that.”
Sundowns return to action on 4 February when they will face Orlando Pirates at Orlando Stadium.
