Relebohile Mofokeng: Kaizer Chiefs Star Tipped to Replace Bafana Bafana Star at Orlando Pirates

Relebohile Mofokeng: Kaizer Chiefs Star Tipped to Replace Bafana Bafana Star at Orlando Pirates

  • Relebohile Mofokeng has decided to leave Orlando Pirates for a lucrative move to the European side, Royale Union Saint-Gilloise
  • The South African international has left a big space in the Sea Robbers' squad ahead of defending their league title next season
  • A football analyst during an exclusive interview with Briefly News suggested a Kaizer Chiefs star that the Bucs should sign as a replacement

Don't miss out! Join Briefly News Sports channel on WhatsApp now!

Orlando Pirates have lost one of their best players this summer as Relebohile Mofokeng leaves the Sea Robbers for a move to Europe.

Bafana Bafana, Relebohile Mofokeng, South Africa, South Korea
Relebohile Mofokeng controls the ball under pressure from Han-Beom Lee #2 of the Korea Republic during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group A match. Image: Luke Hales
Source: Getty Images

The Bafana Bafana attacking midfielder joined Belgian giants Royale Union Saint-Gilloise in a big-money move after the youngster’s impressive performance for the Buccaneers last season in all competitions.

The 21-year-old was influential in Pirates’ domestic title dominance as they ended Mamelodi Sundowns eight years reign as champions by lifting the Betway Premiership trophy for the first time in 14 years.

Read also

Mofokeng leaves Orlando Pirates as girlfriend reacts to Europe switch

Mofokeng found the back of the net 10 times and provided eight assists in the league title win, while also proving important in other competitions like the MTN8 and the Carling Knockout Cup.

Pirates urged to sign Kaizer Chiefs star

Football analyst Uche Anuma, in an exclusive interview with Briefly News, shared his thoughts on Mofokeng’s move to Union Saint-Gilloise this summer. He also went on to advise Pirates to sign Mfundo Vilakazi from Kaizer Chiefs as Mofokeng’s replacement.

ZESCO United, Kaizer Chiefs, Mfundo Vilakazi, CAF Confederation Cup.
Kaizer Chiefs star Mfundo Vilakazi in action during their CAF Confederation Cup tie with ZESCO United. Photo: Kaizer Chiefs.
Source: Twitter
“Rele Mofokeng’s move to Europe was meant to happen, but I feel this time is a perfect time for the youngster’s move,” he said.
“He represented South Africa in the biggest football competition and showcased his talent for the world to see; it means he’s ready for any challenge outside the Premier Soccer League.
“Aside from being a good move for Mofokeng, it’s not looking good for Pirates as they’ve lost one of their most important players from last season’s successful run, which means they need to replace him.
“While many may not agree, I think Mfundo Vilakazi can replace Mofokeng at Pirates. They are similar player who can play on the wings and also in the attacking midfield role.

Read also

Orlando Pirates break silence on Relebohile Mofokeng’s big European move

“Vilakazi hasn’t been utilised properly at Kaizer Chiefs, and I feel he would do better under Abdeslam Ouaddou.”

Will Pirates be missing Mofokeng next season?

Anuma also aired his views about Orlando Pirates missing Mofokeng next season, as they would be gunning for back-to-back Betway Premiership titles.

“Pirates are definitely going to miss Mofokeng; he’s not just a squad member; he’s an important player in the team; that’s why they’re going to miss him seriously, especially if they fail to replace him with another talented player.
“It might get worse for the Buccaneers if Oswin Appollis also moves to Europe. Then that is losing your two best players in the previous campaign.”

Mofokeng reacts emotionally after the win

Briefly News previously reported that Orlando Pirates star Relebohile Mofokeng was a revelation, delivering a brilliant performance in his first start of the tournament.

He was not used in the opening match and came on as a substitute during the 1-1 draw against Czechia.

Source: Briefly News

Authors:
Raphael Abiola avatar

Raphael Abiola (Sports editor) Raphael Abiola is a Nigerian Sports Journalist with over seven years of experience. He obtained a B.Tech degree in Computer Science from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, in 2015. Raphael previously worked as a football editor at Stakegains (2016-2018) and a content editor with Opera News Nigeria (2018-2023). Raphael then worked as an Editor for the Local Desk at Sports Brief (2023-2024). Reach him via email at raphael.abiola@briefly.co.za.