Rulani Mokwena reportedly has an issue with Abdelmounaim Boutouil that is preventing the former Mamelodi Sundowns man from breaking into the Wydad Athletic Club starting XI.
Check Out: New Star 'Hints' At Move To Rulani's Wydad
There were a number surprising departures from Chloorkop this past off-season.
The exit that was perhaps the most shocking was that of Mokwena, but there was another surprise departure when it emerged that Morocco central defender Boutouil was also eager to call time on his brief career with Masandawana.
The 26-year-old followed in the footsteps of the former Orlando Pirates head coach as he left Pretoria for Casablanca, signing a deal with the Red Castle to try and help them return to the summit of domestic football.
Calling all Jozi footie fans! Get ready for the ultimate soccer showdown at the Legendary 5 Tournament – powered by BoyleSports! Gather your squad of eight and compete for glory, plus a chance to win R10 000 cash! The winning team gets to battle it out with a team of legendary SA soccer stars! R500 entry fee. Enter your team now!
It was reported earlier this month that Boutouil would be one of the players Mokwena would be counting on to make a significant impact for his new-look side, but that will have to wait as the former Raja Club Athletic and FAR Rabat defender is yet to reach full fitness.
According to Kooora, the Benslimane native has a lot of excess weight and has been working with Wydad's physical trainer individually in an effort to shed it so he can contribute to the Moroccan giants' efforts as soon as possible.
Check Out: African Giants' Boss 'Makes' FIFA Threat After Stellies Defeat
The Moroccan defender was not included in the matchday squad for Wydad's latest league outing against Moghreb Tetouan, but the same report claims that the club's technical team are hoping he will be fit and ready for their next league match against Union Touarga on Friday.