Relebohile Mofokeng, the young and talented attacking midfielder for Orlando Pirates, has garnered significant praise for his recent standout performances with Bafana Bafana.
Among those singing his praises is none other than seasoned coach Owen da Gama, who believes the 20-year-old has what it takes to shine on an international stage.
Da Gama had the opportunity to watch Mofokeng in action during South Africa’s FIFA World Cup qualifier against Lesotho at the Peter Mokaba Stadium. The match, which Bafana Bafana won 2-0, showcased Mofokeng’s technical skills and composure, leaving a lasting impression on the Magesi FC coach.
Speaking about the game and Mofokeng’s performance, Da Gama shared his thoughts with Kick-off magazine: “I was at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, and it was a very good game. Lesotho is never an easy opponent, but we had a well-balanced team,” Da Gama remarked.
“I was very impressed with the performance, especially from young Mofokeng. He was exceptional. I can see that he will be playing overseas very soon – the sooner, the better. The earlier our players go overseas, the more they can mature and learn the game.”
Da Gama did not hold back in emphasizing Mofokeng’s technical prowess and his potential to excel in Europe’s top football leagues. While acknowledging the rugged physicality of the English Premier League, Da Gama expressed his belief that the Spanish league would be the ideal destination for the Pirates’ starlet: “He has the potential to play in England or Spain. I prefer the Spanish league for him because he is technically very gifted, while the English game is more rugged.”
The idea of Mofokeng moving abroad is not new. The gifted midfielder has long been linked with a potential transfer, with rumors of interest from Barcelona B making headlines. Despite the speculation, no formal negotiations between Orlando Pirates and Barcelona—or any other European club—have been confirmed at this stage.
As discussions about Mofokeng’s future intensify, the dangerman remains focused on his game, continuing to make a name for himself on both domestic and international fronts. Should he secure a move overseas, he could follow in the footsteps of other South African stars who have successfully made their mark in European football.
For now, the future looks bright for Relebohile Mofokeng, and all eyes will remain on this promising young talent as he continues to impress fans, coaches, and scouts alike.
The academy graduate will face his toughest test in the CAF Champions League, when his Pirates team clashes with MC Alger in the quarter-final stage of the continental competition. Kick off in the first leg is set for 21:00 on Tuesday, 01 April 2025.