South Africa coach Hugo Broos backs Relebohile Mofokeng to shine after Union Saint-Gilloise switch

South Africa coach Hugo Broos has backed Relebohile Mofokeng to succeed at Royale Union Saint-Gilloise after completing his move.

The 21-year-old forward joins the Belgian outfit on a permanent deal following an impressive performance for Orlando Pirates.

Broos, who recently worked closely with the winger during 2026 FIFA World Cup duty, believes the move comes at the right time for the player’s development despite warning that adaptation will be crucial.

The experienced Belgian tactician was part of South Africa’s World Cup campaign, which came to an end after a narrow 1-0 defeat to Canada in the Round of 32.

Speaking about the transfer, Broos insisted that the Belgian league could help elevate Mofokeng’s game to another level, particularly in terms of physical and tactical development.

“I think it’s a good thing for him, and he will progress, but we mustn’t expect that he will play from the first day,” Broos said, according to SABC Sport.

The Bafana Bafana coach explained that the transition from South African football to European competition can be demanding, especially for young players still developing physically.

According to Broos, patience will be important during the first few months as the player adapts to the intensity and demands of Belgian football.

“I think he will progress, but Rele must be stronger,” Broos added. “It’s a very tough competition in Belgium, and in the first five to six months they will work a lot on his physical strength.”

Despite the challenges ahead, Broos remains convinced that Mofokeng possesses the technical quality needed to thrive at a high level in Europe.

“He’s a talented player, and once you have the power you need for such a competition, there will be no problem at all,” the former Cameroon coach stated.

Mofokeng’s move is being viewed as another significant milestone for South African football, with many supporters hopeful that the youngster can follow in the footsteps of other African stars who used Belgium as a platform to build successful European careers.

Should the transfer be completed, the winger will join a growing list of African players currently plying their trade in the Belgian top flight, a league widely recognised for nurturing young talent and preparing players for Europe’s biggest competitions.