After Wydad Casablanca officially confirmed the signing of Cassius Mailula on Wednesday, the Bafana Bafana international shared what inspired his decision to move to Morocco.
The 23-year-old has joined the North African giants on loan from Major League Soccer (MLS) outfit Toronto FC after struggling to make an impact at "The Reds". He made just eight appearances in all competitions last season.
Wydad will also have the option to make the loan move permanent should Mailula impress.
His lack of game time at the Canadian club resulted in him losing his place in the national team after making a promising start to his international career.
Mailula revealed that one of the main reasons behind his move Morocco was because of his former coach Rulani Mokwena, who joined Wydad in July after his sacking from Mamelodi Sundowns.
The Lion King has arrived 🦁 Welcome to Wydad Athletic Club 🔴⚪#DimaWydad pic.twitter.com/RW8kAkVAQF
— Wydad Athletic Club (@WACofficiel) August 21, 2024
“I chose Wydad AC for several compelling reasons. First, I will be under the guidance of Coach Rhulani, who knows me well and has always believed in my abilities,” said Mailula.
“He played a pivotal role in my upcoming at Mamelodi Sundowns. Wydad is a prestigious club, and when coach Rhulani shared his ambitions and his vision to make history with the team, I knew it was the right choice.
The diminutive forward added that the prospect of playing in the Club World was also too tempting to ignore.
“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 to play against the best players in the world,” Mailula said to his representatives P Management Sports.
IOL Sport