RABAT, MOROCCO – Orlando Pirates sensation Relebohile Mofokeng has broken his silence on his desire to secure a transfer abroad, admitting he is ready to “grab the chance.”
Speaking ahead of Bafana Bafana’s high-stakes AFCON Round of 16 clash against Cameroon, the 21-year-old winger revealed how he views the tournament as a vital springboard for the next chapter of his career.
The match is scheduled for Sunday night [9PM] at the El Medina Stadium in Rabat. ‘Rele’ has been a model of consistency for the Buccaneers, sparking intense speculation regarding a move to a foreign league following a string of phenomenal performances.
In 2024, the rising star enjoyed a remarkable clean sweep of individual honours, being named the PSL Young Player of the Season, the Nedbank Cup Most Promising Player, and the Gauteng Sports Personality of the Year.
This individual dominance continued into the following campaign, where he secured the MTN8 Last Man Standing title. These accolades were bolstered by major team success, as he played a pivotal role in lifting both the MTN8 and Nedbank Cup trophies.
In his fledgling professional career, he has featured in 106 games, scoring 19 goals and providing 25 assists in all competitions. Mofokeng’s ambitions come amid two high-profile departures from the club. Pirates recently sanctioned the moves of Mohau Nkota to Saudi Arabian side Al Ettifaq and Mbekezeli Mbokazi to MLS outfit Chicago Fire. He is aware that international scouts are circling. When pressed on his personal goals, the rising star did not hide his desire to test himself in another country.
WHAT RELEBOHILE MOFOKENG SAID ABOUT HIS AMBITIONS
“I think if something can be available for me, I can get the chance somewhere in another country,” he said Bafana’s training base – Mohammed VI Complex on Saturday. “I think it will be a very good move. This tournament is very important [in that aspect]. When I get a chance, I’ll just have to grab it,” Mofokeng said.
Meanwhile, as Bafana navigate the intense competition of the ongoing AFCON, the Buccaneers star is aware of the mental fortitude required to succeed at the highest level.
“I think the most important thing is mentality,” Mofokeng added. “Even if a person is bigger, the mentality matters the most because if I tell myself that I’m going to get past this guy, I’m going to do it.”
He described Broos as a “very quiet” coach who offers consistent encouragement. According to Mofokeng, the Belgian tactician’s message has been clear. The 2017 AFCON winner is eyeing a win on Sunday.
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