Bafana Bafana Legend Makes Strong Predictions About Relebohile Mofokeng’s Future in Belgian League

• Shaun Bartlett weighed in on Relebohile Mofokeng's future after the 21-year-old's strong start at Royale Union Saint-Gilloise
• Mofokeng scored two league goals and netted the winning penalty in the Belgian Super Cup since joining from Orlando Pirates in July
• Bartlett drew on his own European experience to explain what could accelerate Mofokeng's move to an even bigger league

Former Bafana Bafana striker Shaun Bartlett believes Relebohile Mofokeng's stay in Belgium could be briefer than many expect, pointing to the young winger's rapid early form and the modern pace of football transfers as key factors.

Mofokeng, 21, joined Royale Union Saint-Gilloise in July after four seasons with Orlando Pirates in the Betway Premiership. He has wasted no time making his presence felt, netting two goals in four league appearances and scoring the match-winning penalty as Royale Union claimed the Belgian Super Cup against Club Brugge.

The Brussels-based side will also compete in the UEFA Europa League this season, having narrowly missed out on Champions League qualification, giving Mofokeng a platform to test himself against continental opposition.

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Bartlett's Take on Mofokeng's European Timeline

Bartlett, who built his own European career with FC Zurich and Charlton Athletic during their time in the English Premier League, told FARPost that elite talent no longer needs years to attract attention from bigger clubs.

"Rele has just gone to Belgium, and by January [2027], he could be in a higher league. It depends on how quickly he settles in and the performances he puts in. So, it's all about the player and how they really adapt and take it on board," Bartlett said.

The former Kaizer Chiefs forward pointed to the role of social media in compressing traditional scouting timelines. "It doesn't even have to be three years. With the amount of exposure you get nowadays, it's not even from television. Now, with a simple phone, you can even record something and post it on social media, and then it goes viral. So, it doesn't have to be three years."

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Timing the Key Factor, Says Bartlett

Bartlett reflected on the role fortune played in his own move to England, framing it as a lesson applicable to Mofokeng's situation.

"I always say it's all about timing. When you do well and when other clubs need a certain player, if the timing is right, they will sign you and add you to their team. I think that was even the fortunate thing about me going to England," he said.

Bartlett spent two seasons at FC Zurich before securing a loan move to Charlton Athletic, which was subsequently made permanent. His career arc mirrors the kind of rapid progression he now sees as realistic for Mofokeng, whose early Belgian performances have already drawn attention across the continent.

Source: Briefly News