Orlando Pirates’ star midfielder, Relebohile Mofokeng, has reportedly turned down lucrative offers from two top Egyptian football clubs during the winter transfer window. Despite attracting attention from powerful teams across Africa and beyond, Mofokeng, who has been in stellar form, has opted to remain at Orlando Pirates for now.
Rejection of Al Ahly and Zamalek SC
Al Ahly, one of Africa’s biggest and most successful clubs, made a significant offer for the 20-year-old player. However, Mofokeng rejected the offer, as he has expressed no desire to leave Orlando Pirates for another African club at this stage in his career. The decision reportedly caught the Egyptian giants by surprise, leading them to close the door on any further negotiations. Similarly, Zamalek SC, another prominent Egyptian club, also made a last-minute bid for Mofokeng on deadline day, but this too was turned down.
Focus on European Move
Mofokeng’s agent has confirmed that the player’s long-term ambition is to move to Europe, rather than playing for any African clubs, no matter how prestigious. This ambition aligns with his consistent performances on the field, which continue to draw attention from top clubs around the world. Mofokeng has been one of the standout players in the Betway Premiership this season, contributing to Orlando Pirates’ strong campaign.
Impressive Performance at Orlando Pirates
Since joining Orlando Pirates in August 2022, Mofokeng has shown immense promise. The young midfielder has played a crucial role in the club’s success, racking up six goals and four assists in the league so far this season. His performances have not gone unnoticed, and he has become a fan favorite at the Buccaneers.
In addition to his domestic success, Mofokeng has also impressed in continental competitions. In the CAF Champions League, he currently sits in third place for the competition’s top goal scorer, with three goals and two assists. His excellent performances in the MTN8 Cup, where he scored two goals and registered two assists in just four games, further demonstrate his potential.
A Bright Future Ahead
Mofokeng’s journey began at the Transnet School of Excellence, and his development continued through Orlando Pirates’ youth ranks before earning a call-up to the senior team. He has already established himself as a key player and has received national recognition, earning several call-ups to the South African national team.
At just 20 years old, Mofokeng is already one of the most valuable players in the league, with a market value of €1.2 million, according to Transfermarkt. His rising star has made him one of the top players in the Betway Premiership, alongside teammates like Monnapule Saleng and Tapelo Xoki.
Achievements and Hopes for the Future
Since joining the senior team, Mofokeng has won three major trophies with Orlando Pirates, including two MTN8 Cups and a Nedbank Cup. This season, he will be hoping to add the Betway Premiership to his trophy collection. Currently sitting second in the league, Pirates trail Mamelodi Sundowns by nine points but still have two games in hand.
With his incredible potential and ambition, Relebohile Mofokeng is a name to watch closely in the coming years, and it’s only a matter of time before he secures a move to one of Europe’s top clubs.