How Mohau Nkota’s Saudi Move May Have Shaken Relebohile Mofokeng’s Confidence: Exclusive Analysis
- Orlando Pirates winger Relebohile Mofokeng has struggled in the early 2025/26 season following Mohau Nkota’s move abroad
- At just 20, Mofokeng has time to regain form, and the transfer window leaves the door open for a potential move abroad
- Briefly News had an exclusive interview with a football analyst who suggests that Nkota’s departure may have unsettled Mofokeng, affecting his confidence on the pitch
Rising Orlando Pirates star Relebohile Mofokeng has struggled to hit top gear in the early stages of the 2025/26 season, and according to an English football analyst, the reason could be more psychological than tactical. The 20-year-old, who burst onto the scene in the 2022/23 campaign, has been a central figure for the Buccaneers over the past two seasons.
Source: Getty Images
But with new head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou at the helm and two underwhelming performances in the MTN8 and the league, including a 1-0 defeat to Sekhukhune United, questions are being asked about what’s holding the talented winger back.
‘It can play on a young player’s mind’
Speaking exclusively to Briefly News, UK-based sports analyst Peter Wallace believes the departure of Mofokeng’s teammate and fellow young star Mohau Nkota to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq could have had an emotional impact.
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“In football, people underestimate the psychology of the dressing room,” Wallace explained.
“When you see someone you came through the ranks with, someone who was maybe seen as your junior, make a big move abroad so soon, it can unsettle you. It’s not about jealousy; it’s about human nature. You start asking yourself questions about your own path.”
Nkota, who made his breakthrough just last season, was a key part of the Bucs’ young core alongside Mofokeng and Mbekezeli Mbokazi. His rapid move abroad has been hailed as a major personal success, but Wallace says it’s the type of change that can subtly disrupt the mindset of even the most focused player.
‘He’s not quite himself’
“From the outside, fans might say, ‘You’re still playing for a big club, you’re earning good money,’ but for the player, it’s different,” Wallace added.
“Rele was the face of Orlando Pirates’ youth movement. For someone else to come in, make an impact, and leave for a lucrative overseas deal, that can leave you questioning whether you’ve missed your own moment.”
Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye recently made similar comments locally, suggesting Mofokeng “is not himself” since Nkota’s departure.
Source: Getty Images
With the transfer window still open, speculation continues over whether Mofokeng could be lured abroad before deadline day. Wallace, however, insists patience is key.
“He’s just 20. These are formative years, and one slow start doesn’t define a season. The best thing he can do now is block out the noise, focus on his football, and trust that his opportunity will come, because with his talent, it will.”
Whether the Buccaneers can reignite Mofokeng’s spark may prove crucial in their push to dethrone Mamelodi Sundowns in the race for the PSL title.
Orlando Pirates’ poor start explained
Briefly News previously reported that Orlando Pirates’ rocky start to the Betway Premiership has set alarm bells ringing among the Buccaneers faithful.
Two games into the season, and Abdeslam Ouaddou’s men have nothing to show but back-to-back defeats, the latest a shock 2-1 loss to Marumo Gallants in Bloemfontein.
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Source: Briefly News
