Lorch’s Name Mystery & Mokwena’s Wydad Struggles Unveiled!

In recent developments within Moroccan football, two South African figures have been making headlines: Thembinkosi Lorch and Rhulani Mokwena.

Lorch, an attacking midfielder, has recently joined Wydad Athletic Club (Wydad AC) and has been the subject of discussions regarding his name.

Meanwhile, Mokwena, appointed as Wydad AC’s head coach in July 2024, has been navigating the challenges of leading one of Morocco’s premier football clubs.

Thembinkosi Lorch, born on July 22, 1993, in Ficksburg, Free State, South Africa, has established himself as a formidable talent in African football.

Known for his agility and playmaking abilities, Lorch’s career has seen him play for clubs such as Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns before his recent move to Wydad AC.

A topic of interest among fans and media has been the use of the name “Christopher” in association with Lorch.

This curiosity stems from various reports and social media discussions suggesting a name change.

However, according to available information, “Christopher” is Lorch’s middle name, making his full name Thembinkosi Christopher Lorch.

This detail is corroborated by his player profile on Global Sports Archive, which lists his full name as Thembinkosi Christopher Lorch.

The recent emphasis on “Christopher” may be attributed to cultural practices or personal preferences, but there is no official record indicating a legal name change.

Fans and commentators are encouraged to refer to him by his preferred name, respecting his personal and cultural identity.

Rhulani Mokwena, born on January 9, 1987, in Johannesburg, South Africa, embarked on his coaching career at a young age.

With a family deeply rooted in football—being the son of former Orlando Pirates player Julius Sono and nephew to Jomo Sono—Mokwena’s passion for the sport was evident early on.

His coaching journey includes roles as an assistant manager at Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates, and head coaching positions at Chippa United and Mamelodi Sundowns.

In July 2024, Mokwena took on the role of head coach at Wydad AC, marking a significant step in his career.

Upon his arrival, Mokwena expressed a strong commitment to restoring Wydad AC’s dominance in Moroccan football.

He emphasized his focus on securing the league title, stating, “I’m here to win the league.

So, we focus on the league right now.”

The 2024–25 season has been a period of mixed outcomes for Wydad AC under Mokwena’s leadership.

The team has experienced a series of draws and losses, impacting their position in the Botola Pro League.

As of November 2024, Wydad AC stood 15 points behind league leaders RS Berkane, with a record of six wins, six draws, and four losses in 16 matches.

This performance has raised concerns among supporters and the club’s management.

In response to a significant 4-1 home defeat to MAS Fes, the club’s board convened an emergency meeting to address the team’s performance.

Despite the mounting pressure, the board reaffirmed its support for Mokwena, emphasizing that the responsibility for the team’s form rests not solely on the coach but also on the players.

To bolster the coaching staff, the club decided to bring in a local coach to assist Mokwena, aligning with his openness to collaborate with local expertise.

Mokwena has remained resolute, expressing his dedication to the club and its supporters.

He stated, “The president and the board know I have a contract.

Yes, we are Wydad, and we should never lose like that, and that’s why I apologize to the club and everybody at the club, especially the supporters, as they deserve so much better.

” He further emphasized his commitment by saying, “I want to be here…

with all my heart because I love the club and I am doing my best.”

Financially, Mokwena’s move to Wydad AC has been notable.

Reports indicate that he earns a monthly salary of R600,000, reflecting the club’s investment in his expertise and leadership.

As the season progresses, both Thembinkosi Lorch and Rhulani Mokwena remain central figures in Wydad AC’s endeavors.

Lorch’s integration into the squad and potential impact on the field, combined with Mokwena’s strategic leadership, are pivotal to the club’s aspirations for success in domestic and continental competitions.

The football community keenly observes how these South African talents will influence Wydad AC’s trajectory in the coming months.