Mofokeng must leave South Africa – Former Manchester United star Quinton Fortune

Former South Africa and Manchester United midfielder Quinton Fortune has backed rising star Relebohile Mofokeng to make an immediate move to Europe after explosive World Cup display.

Mofokeng caught the eye during Bafana Bafana’s Group A matches against Czech and South Korea, where his pace, creativity and fearless attacking play provided a glimpse of his enormous potential on the international stage.

The young midfielder has quickly emerged as one of South Africa’s most exciting prospects, with his performances at the tournament strengthening belief that a move to a top European league is the natural next step in his development.

Fortune, who was part of South Africa’s historic 2002 World Cup squad in Japan and South Korea, was full of praise for Mofokeng and did not hold back in his assessment of the youngster’s future.

“The only thing I wanted to say when I saw him is that he needs to leave South Africa,” Fortune said on Sporty TV.

“This talent is a waste, I’m sorry if I’m… I want that talent to go to the next level. Playing at that level against such a top team in the group and putting that performance, oh my goodness.”

The former Manchester United midfielder stressed that Mofokeng’s quality is already suited to higher-level competition and warned that staying in domestic football for too long could slow his development.

“He’s got to go, I’m not being the bad person here but he has to go,” Fortune added.

Mofokeng’s performances have been one of the standout positives for South Africa at the World Cup, where Bafana Bafana have impressed with their discipline, organisation and attacking energy against strong international opposition.

The 21-year-old’s ability to take on defenders, create chances and play with confidence in high-pressure matches has attracted growing attention from European scouts, with speculation expected to intensify after the tournament.

South Africa’s coaching staff have also been encouraged by the emergence of several young talents, with Mofokeng seen as a key figure in the country’s next generation of footballers.

While no official transfer move has been confirmed, increasing interest from abroad suggests that a European switch could be on the horizon if his development continues at the same trajectory.

For now, Mofokeng remains focused on his international duties, but the growing consensus among analysts and former players is clear: his performances have already reached a level that demands attention from Europe’s top leagues.