Former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Andile Jali has revealed more about his strained relationship with ex-coach Rulani Mokwena, saying he felt their professional relationship became too personal.
Jali spent several successful years at Sundowns after joining the club in 2018, but his time at Chloorkop eventually ended amid a difficult period that saw him spend significant time on the sidelines before leaving in 2023.
Now, the former Bafana Bafana midfielder has offered his version of what went wrong.
Jali explains his issue with Mokwena
Speaking on the Arena Sports Show, Jali said his biggest issue with Mokwena was the nature of their relationship away from the purely professional side of football.
According to Jali, he felt the coach attempted to take on a parental role in his life — something he was not comfortable with.
“We had our issues. We had fun at times, but in the end, it wasn’t the same because he wanted to be like a father to me,” Jali said.
Jali made it clear that he believed the relationship should have remained centred on their respective roles as player and coach.
He added that he already had his own family and did not want his coach taking on the role of a father figure.
A very different relationship with Pitso Mosimane
Jali also reflected on his time working under Pitso Mosimane, contrasting that experience with his relationship with Mokwena.
The midfielder joined Sundowns during Mosimane’s tenure and played an important role as the club enjoyed considerable domestic success.
Jali recalled Mosimane’s approach with affection, describing a coach who could surprise players with his team selections while maintaining a strong professional relationship.
“Pitso is the coach who today might not like you, but tomorrow he wakes up and wants to play you.”
For Jali, that relationship appeared to be based more firmly around football and competition for places.
Tensions eventually boiled over
The relationship between Jali and Mokwena became increasingly strained during the midfielder’s final period at Sundowns.
The two were involved in a heated exchange during a match, providing a public glimpse of tensions that had developed behind the scenes.
Jali eventually left Sundowns in 2023, bringing an end to a spell that had begun with significant success but finished under difficult circumstances.
His latest comments now provide further insight into how he viewed the relationship with Mokwena.
Importantly, Jali’s comments represent his account of the situation, while Mokwena may have his own perspective on the events.
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