Mofokeng’s move to Belgium can strengthen Bafana Bafana, says Leboeuf

Relebohile Mofokeng’s move from Orlando Pirates to Royale Union Saint-Gilloise can provide a major boost to the South Africa national team, according to France legend Frank Leboeuf.

The 21-year-old forward has joined the Belgian club after establishing himself as one of the most promising players in South African football. Leboeuf believes Mofokeng will face a demanding adjustment in Europe, but says the experience should benefit both the player and Bafana Bafana.

“He’s going to get some experience from Europe for sure,” Leboeuf told IOL via Mr Gamble. “Keeping his talent and his flair for his football is going to be so helpful for the national team.”

Mofokeng made an immediate impact at Orlando Pirates despite his young age. By the time he left the Soweto Giants in July, he had made nearly 100 appearances for the club.

His performances played an important role in Pirates ending Mamelodi Sundowns’ eight-year hold on the Betway Premiership. The Buccaneers completed his spell with the club by being crowned league champions last season.

Leboeuf, who won the 1998 World Cup with France, said Mofokeng’s ability to settle quickly in Belgium would reveal important qualities in his character.

“On top of that, if he’s capable of adapting very quickly, it shows his character, personality, and ability to adapt to anything,” he said.

“When you come from South Africa and go to Belgium, that’s another story. It’s not like me going from France to England, which wasn’t that far. Orlando Pirates is in Johannesburg.”

The former France defender also stressed that moving abroad would expose Mofokeng to a different way of life, offering lessons that extend beyond football.

“I went there in 2010, and it’s a different life. It’s a different culture, a different way of seeing the world and living your life,” Leboeuf said.

“Hopefully he’s going to be happy, because if he’s happy, he can keep scoring goals and be good for the national team.”

Leboeuf recalled his own experience of facing South Africa and praised the influence of players who have gained experience in Europe.

“It’s a real plus. I remember playing against South Africa once. It’s funny because my name, Leboeuf, means ‘the beef,’ and I was playing against [Mark] Fish. It was fun to have Fish and the beef talking to each other,” he said.

“I remember he brought a lot of experience playing in Europe as well, so it’s always a plus. I’m glad that a Belgian team signed Mofokeng and that it’s working out.”