The 31-year-old Bafana Bafana defender has explained how the players were affected after their coach left.
Mamelodi Sundowns defender Grant Kekana has conceded it was not easy to accept Rulani Mokwena has left.
The 37-year-old reportedly fell out with Masandawana Sporting Director Flemming Berg regarding the signings that were made. Mokwena wanted to have full control of those coming in and going out, but the former was not ready to give him absolute power.
The tactician was eventually let go and Moroccan top-tier team Wydad Athletic Club snapped him on a three-year deal.
‘It was tough… a huge loss'
Recently, the Brazilians captain Themba Zwane admitted the playing unit had to encourage each other after the technical team's changes.
Kekana is the latest one to reveal how hard it was for the players to accept the tactician has left, “It was tough you know,” he opened up in an interview with Metro FM's Sports Night Amplified.
“Like I kept telling you, we had a bond outside of just football you know and he’s helped me a lot. Especially in my personal life, how I look at things you know.
“[Rulani leaving] was a huge loss but we understand it’s also a part of football you know; as much as players come and go, so do coaches.
“The connection is still there but one can only wish him well because he’s done so much for me and the team. So we can only wish him well and yeah we can’t wait to meet with him be it in the [Caf Champions League] or [African Football League],” the 31-year-old concluded.
Kekana and his teammates will now have to ensure they deliver for the Brazilians this season across all competitions.
Sundowns, who are under Manqoba Mngqithi, Steve Komphela, and Romain Folz, will be challenging for domestic competitions as well as the Caf Champions League, African Football League, and expanded Fifa Club World Cup.
They start their season against Polokwane City on August 11 in the MTN8 quarter final fixture.
