Bafana Bafana striker Cassius Mailula has explained the decision to leave MLS side Toronto FC to join Wydad Casablanca on loan – a move that will see him reunite with former Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena.
The North African giants confirmed on Wednesday that they had secured the services of Mailula on a season-long loan that includes the option to buy the player at the end of the campaign.
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The move, albeit a surprise, has handed a lifeline to what had become a stalled career in Toronto FC's reserve side for Mailula.
Speaking via his representative PManagement Sports, the stocky player revealed that he is confident that reuniting with the coach under whom he scored 15 goals in the 2022/23 season will bring him back to his best.
"I chose Wydad AC for several compelling reasons. First, I will be under the guidance of coach Rulani, who knows me well and has always believed in my abilities," Mailula said.
"He played a pivotal role in my [emergence] at Mamelodi Sundowns. Wydad is a prestigious club and when Coach Rulani shared his ambitions and his vision to make history with the team, I knew it was the right choice.
"Additionally, the opportunity to compete in the Club World Cup next year is a significant driver to the decision as it aligns with my dream of playing against the best players in the world."
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The 23-year-old leaves Toronto having made six appearances and scored two goals.
He may get his first chance to feature in a competitive match for his new side on Saturday when the three-time CAF Champions League winners take on MAS Fes.