Belgium-bound sensation Relebohile Mofokeng has penned a deeply emotional farewell to Orlando Pirates following his move to Europe, declaring that his departure is far from a final goodbye.
The 21-year-old was recently unveiled as a new player for Belgian top-flight league side Royale Union Saint-Gilloise. The transfer came fresh after participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Bafana Bafana. Pirates and the Jupiler League outfit had reached an agreement for Mofokeng’s transfer before the global football showpiece.
But the player completed his move after Bafana were knocked out of the World Cup. Their run came to a halt at the Round of 32 stage after losing to co-hosts Canada. Before that, Mofokeng had hinted that his time at Pirates had come to an end on the last day of the 2025/26 Betway Premiership campaign. The Buccaneers had beaten Orbit College FC 2-0 at Mbombela Stadium.
“The young playmaker waved goodbye to the Soweto giants’ fans on the afternoon they were crowned PSL champions. Mofokeng later revealed that he knew he was leaving Bucs. He has now joined Union SG, the Belgian club where Bafana Bafana star Percy Tau once played.
Mofokeng has already stated that he intends to use this Belgian move to secure deals at bigger European clubs. Royale Union will be participating in the UEFA Champions League group stage qualifiers.
RELEBOHILE MOFOKENG POURS OUT HIS HEART IN BIDDING ORLANDO PIRATES FAREWELL
Over the last four seasons, Mofokeng formed an unbreakable bond with the Pirates fans. He enjoyed their strong backing, even when he lost form earlier last season—a period that coincided with him being sidelined by Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos.
He rewarded the Buccaneers faithful by picking himself up and playing a key role in delivering the Betway Premiership title to the club for the first time in 14 years. What made the triumph even more special for Pirates was dislodging Mamelodi Sundowns as champions.
“I write this message with a heart full of gratitude, pride, and emotion as I bid farewell to Orlando Pirates Football Club. Representing this great institution has been one of the greatest honours of my life,” wrote Mofokeng on Instagram on Tuesday morning.
“From the moment I first wore the Orlando Pirates badge, I understood the responsibility, history, and privilege that comes with representing Orlando Pirates. Every training session, every match, every victory, and every challenge has shaped me both as a footballer and as a person.
“To the Chairman, board, management, and everyone involved in the leadership of the club, thank you for believing in me, investing in my development, and providing me with the opportunity to fulfil a dream that many young footballers aspire to achieve.”
‘THANK YOU FOR THE BROTHERHOOD’: MOFOKENG
During his time in the Pirates first team, Mofokeng worked under Jose Riveiro, who promoted him from the reserve side. But in his final season at the club, he was under current coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.
“To the coaches, technical team, medical staff, and all employees behind the scenes, thank you for your guidance, dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering support throughout my journey. Your contribution often goes unseen, but it never goes unappreciated,” the midfielder who can also play on either wing went on.
“To my teammates, thank you for the brotherhood, the memories, the battles we fought together, and the moments we celebrated as one family. I will forever cherish the relationships we built and the lessons we shared.”
He added: “To our sponsors and partners, thank you for your continued support of the club, the players, and the broader Orlando Pirates family. Your investment and belief in this institution help make our dreams possible.
“And most importantly, to the Orlando Pirates supporters—the Ghost—thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your passion, loyalty, and unwavering support have inspired me every time I stepped onto the pitch. Through the highs and the challenges, you stood by us, and I will forever be grateful for the love you have shown me. Wearing this badge in front of you was a privilege I will never take for granted.”
RELE MOFOKENG’S KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM HIS TIME AT PIRATES
“As I embark on a new chapter in my career, I do so carrying the values, memories, and experiences that Orlando Pirates has given me. This club will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will always be proud to have been part of its rich history and tradition.
“This is not goodbye, but rather A THANK YOU for an unforgettable journey.
“I will always respect and honour everything the team has done for me. I arrived at Orlando Pirates as Rele, I leave as Relebohile Mofokeng. Being part of the team has not only made me a better player, but a better person also.”
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