Former Orlando Pirates dribbling wizard Thabo Rakhale has shed light on the coach who played a pivotal role in unlocking his talent during his time with the Soweto giants.
A fan favourite at Orlando Pirates, Rakhale, affectionately known as ‘Jomo’, thrilled supporters with his flamboyant style and exciting brand of football between 2014 and 2017.
Rakhale embodies the spirit of Kasi flair, effortlessly weaving his magic with the ball. His signature moves include mesmerising rolls, nutmegs [Shibobos], and lightning-fast turns, leaving opponents bewildered in his wake.
Although, according to the Vanderbijlpark-born star, some coaches were against his playing style, there was a coach who granted him the freedom and opportunity to do his tricks during his spells at the Sea Robbers.
In an interview with FARPost, Rakhale disclosed how freely he enjoyed playing football under the tutelage of former Pirates mentor Muhsin Ertugral.
Muhsin Ertugral EMERGES AS THABO RAKHALE’S BEST COACH AT ORLANDO PIRATES
The 2016/17 season under Ertugral proved transformational for Rakhale at Pirates. Having navigated several loan spells prior, this period marked a personal and professional high for the attacker.
“Muhsin [Ertugral] gave me a chance to play the way I could. He is an honest and straightforward coach. To play under him, you just need to be a good listener. If you don’t listen, you are out. It is as simple as that,” Rakhale told FARPost.
“For me, the funny thing is that I thought we wouldn’t get along when he came to Pirates as there were issues of how I play with the other European coaches.
“Well, he gave me a chance and allowed me to play the way I play. He allowed me to express myself. I enjoyed playing under him, to be honest.
“Sometimes he would get angry if I played simple like other guys and would ask me, ‘Did Pirate sign you playing like this’? Play the way you know for the benefit of the team. If not, you are going out’.”
“So, well, in short, I appreciate having worked with him and wished it could have been a bit longer. Surely he would have helped me to become a better player and reach greater heights.”
Rakhale has also featured for Polokwane City FC, Marumo Gallants, Chippa United and Sekhukhune United. He made over 200 appearances in the DStv Premiership, hitting the back of the net 13 times and providing 16 assists.
After struggling to find a team for over a year, the 33-year-old playmaker is now enjoying his football in Botswana after joining the famous Township Rollers in July 2023.
RELATED STORY: Ex-Pirates star Rakhale names three teams to watch in DStv Prem title race
Story by Clifton Mabasa
