Why Mohau Nkota Returned to Orlando Pirates After Saudi Arabia Move
- Mohau Nkota’s return to Orlando Pirates comes after a difficult spell that could make his next chapter especially important
- The young Orlando Pirates winger has returned to familiar territory with plenty still to prove after his time in Saudi Arabia
- Nkota’s latest move could have consequences beyond Orlando Pirates as the Bafana Bafana hopeful looks to rebuild his career
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Mohau Nkota’s return to Orlando Pirates has been described by his agent, Karabo Tshabuse, as a move focused on the winger’s immediate needs rather than a retreat from his ambitions. The 21-year-old rejoined the Buccaneers on loan from Al-Ettifaq until June 2027, with the move confirmed on Thursday, 3 September 2026.
Tshabuse told SABC Sport that Nkota needs stability as he rebuilds his career after a difficult period.
“I think it's all about what Mohau needs at this particular stage of his career and his life,” she said.
“He has gone through a difficult season following the passing of his father, and coming back home gives him an opportunity to have a support structure around him.”
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Orlando Pirates loan offers Nkota a reset
Nkota moved to Al-Ettifaq for a reported R40 million but was later affected by injury and missed Bafana Bafana’s historic FIFA World Cup campaign.
Tshabuse believes his return to Pirates can help him rediscover his form.
“We believe the loan spell will help in Mohau's ability to compete again for a spot in the national team,” she said.
“He's going back to a place where he can get back to his best and rediscover his form.”
Bafana Bafana return remains possible
The agent also said Nkota’s agency proposed the loan, with Pirates willing to help the winger regain his footing.
Tshabuse has not ruled out Nkota returning to Saudi Arabia early or eventually making his stay at Pirates permanent.
The immediate priority, however, appears to be regular football and rebuilding momentum.
Mohau Nkota’s emotional tribute to his late father
Briefly News previously reported on the personal struggles Mohau Nkota faced while recovering from a knee injury and grieving the death of his father.
The Orlando Pirates winger shared emotional tributes on Instagram, remembering his father as his “first hero” and promising to make him proud. The loss came during an already difficult period as Nkota continued his rehabilitation away from competitive football.
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Source: Briefly News
