Mofokeng can reach Europe’s top level, says McCarthy after Union SG breakthrough

Benni McCarthy believes Relebohile Mofokeng has the character and ability to build a successful career in European football after making an impressive start at Royale Union Saint-Gilloise.

The 22-year-old attacking midfielder joined Union SG at the start of the current campaign following an outstanding season with Orlando Pirates. Mofokeng helped the Buccaneers complete a treble, which included their first Betway Premiership title in 14 years.

His move to Belgium was met with some doubt, including criticism from former Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos, who questioned whether Mofokeng’s physical attributes would allow him to adapt to European football.

But Mofokeng has responded positively to those concerns. He has scored five goals and provided four assists in 15 appearances across all competitions since arriving at Union SG.

McCarthy, who is the Kenya national team coach, said Mofokeng’s ability to cope with adversity had been one of the most encouraging aspects of his early progress.

“I think the biggest compliment I can give the boy is that he proved Hugo Broos wrong,” McCarthy said on SportyTV.

“He’s proven his biggest critic wrong and that’s what I’m the most proud of the boy. And that shows that he’s South African blood he’s a survivor. He can survive anywhere. You put him in an uncomfortable situation, and he comes up top.”

The former UEFA Champions League winner believes Mofokeng must now focus on producing consistently strong performances and use his time at Union SG to attract attention from clubs in bigger European leagues.

McCarthy also views the Belgian club as an appropriate setting for Mofokeng’s continued development. Union SG compete in European competitions and regularly challenge for domestic honours, giving the South African opportunities to test himself at a high level.

“He has already shown he can handle a difficult situation,” McCarthy said. “Now the next step is to keep performing and make sure he continues to improve.”

Mofokeng’s progress has also been recognised in South Africa. He was recently named the South African Football Journalists Association (SAFJA) Men’s Footballer of the Year, adding an individual award to the team success he enjoyed with Orlando Pirates.

The recognition follows a rapid rise for the midfielder, who has moved from domestic success with the Buccaneers to establishing himself in Belgium despite the questions surrounding his readiness for European football.