Saturday Mar 13, 2021. 14:00
Mamelodi Sundowns co-coach Rhulani Mokwena has expressed his excitement at the “leadership principles” Patrice Motsepe will bring to the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
South African businessman and Sundowns owner Motsepe was elected as CAF’s new president in Morocco on Friday, succeeding former head Ahmad Ahmad for the next four years.
On behalf of the Brazilians, Mokwena has congratulated Motsepe and believes he will bring organisational success to African football.
“I think we must be excited for African football to get a leader such as Dr. Motsepe,” Mokwena told South African media on Friday, as quoted by Goal.
“And first for us is to congratulate him on ascending to power and ascending to his rightful position as the leader of African football.
“The coronation couldn’t have been given to anyone more deserving and more capable of leading us into a new era as Africans involved in this beautiful game. So, for us is to congratulate and at the same time wish him all the best.
“The work that he’s done for South African football, his hard work, his dedication, his foresight has allowed him to be recognised as one of the best leaders on the continent and therefore we know because we’ve worked very closely with him.
“We know the amount of hours that he put in and how meticulous he is with regards to his leadership principles.
“So, it really does excite us, at this point in time it’s all about ushering into a new era of African football and hopefully, we get to witness the greatness that is ahead for the Africa continent.”
Motsepe, in his new role at CAF, will be obliged to step aside at Sundowns in order to avoid a conflict of interest. This will see his eldest son, Tlhopie Motsepe, take charge, while his wife, Dr Rejoice Simelane, is set to serve as the club’s vice-president.
“And of course, we are excited because it means new leadership comes in at Mamelodi Sundowns,” added Mokwena.
“The fortunate part is that the president has always been one to prepare people and also give opportunities to people to lead. And we are excited to welcome in new leadership with his son Tlhopie Motsepe and Dr. Rejoice and the rest of the board.
“It was never a one-man show at Mamelodi Sundowns, they’ve always [worked together] – with the president leading of course – but with the support and hard work of the board.
“Although his departure will leave a void, we are fortunate to have people with equal capacity and a lot of potentials to take over and again direct the club into a new space.
“It’s exciting times, not just for African football but also for us as Mamelodi Sundowns as we get into the new era. And we are excited and looking forward to it. We wish the president all the best.”
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