A rival coach has commended Wydad Athletic Club for their patience with Rulani Mokwena during his challenging early days in Morocco.
The former Mamelodi Sundowns coach who joined the Red Castle amidst high expectations, initially seemed to struggle to impose his philosophy.
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However, Wydad's faith in the South African tactician has begun to pay off, with the team now climbing to fourth place on the league table after 14 matches.
Jeunesse Sportive Soualem head coach Redouane El Haimeur has hailed the Red Castle's decision to back the South African during his tough start to life in the Botola Pro 1.
Wydad's record of six wins, five draws, and three losses has left them in a strong position to secure qualification for next season's CAF competitions, a significant turnaround from their disappointing sixth-place finish last term that saw them miss out on continental football.
El Haimeur, speaking after his team's 2-0 victory over Moghreb Tetouan on Saturday, praised the side's patience with Mokwena as a shining example for other clubs.
"I always cite Wydad as an example," the manager told Kooora.
"They supported their coach Mokwena through a difficult start, and now they are reaping the rewards. Their faith in him shows what can happen when a club stands by its manager."
Turning to his own team, El Haimeur expressed relief after ending a three-match losing streak with the win over Tetouan.
The result saw Jeunesse Sportive Soualem move up the standings, providing a much-needed morale boost as the league approaches its halfway mark.
"I have always believed in this group," the coach continued.
"What we needed was confidence and patience, just as Wydad showed with Mokwena. When we lost to the Royal Army and Wydad, we weren't as bad as some critics suggested. It was about waiting for the players to respond, and they did."
"I have always believed in this group," he added.
"What we needed was confidence and patience, just as Wydad showed with Mokwena. When we lost to the Royal Army (AS FAR) and Wydad, we weren't as bad as some critics suggested. It was about waiting for the players to respond, and they did."
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