South African forward Cassius Mailula open to Wydad extension

The 24-year-old Bafana striker joined Wydad from parent team Toronto FC and went on to feature 33 times, scoring five goals and creating seven.

He also played all three of his club's matches at the Club World Cup in the United States, scoring in the narrow 2-1 loss to Al Ain on Thursday as Wydad were eliminated in the group stages.

Mailula was signed under former coach Rulani Mokwena but current Wydad boss Amine Benhachem may be keen to keep hold of the South African, and compatriot Thembinkosi Lorch, who is on loan from Mamelodi Sundowns.

Reflecting on their Club World Cup campaign, Mailula said on Elbotola: "It was a tough group for us, but I think the players gave their best. Wydad has become a strong team now. It's clear that the players are not used to each other, as some of them arrived three or four days before the start of the tournament.

"However, I believe that if they had a good preparatory season, the team would have performed well. We apologise to the fans for not giving them the best results, but overall I think the players tried hard, but it wasn't easy. I think it was a good experience for us as a team, and we learned a lot of lessons."

Mailula added: "Now I love Wydad and I love Morocco. They have taken care of me, but I think it's time for me to be with my family to think and see what the future holds for me.

"Obviously, I will talk to the club, my agent and my family as well, to see if it is a good project for me to return next season or not, but it was amazing. Wydad took care of me, and it will be great to be here next season as well."

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