Orlando Pirates bring back Bafana Bafana winger Mohau Nkota on season-long loan

Orlando Pirates have re-signed Bafana Bafana winger Mohau Nkota on a season-long loan from Saudi Pro League club Al Ettifaq.

The move was confirmed by Al Ettifaq and subsequently announced by Orlando Pirates, marking Nkota’s return to the Buccaneers as he continues his recovery and works towards full fitness.

Orlando Pirates posted: “orlandopirates is pleased to welcome Mohau Nkota back on a season loan,”

The 21-year-old returns to familiar surroundings after spending last season with Al Ettifaq, where he made 22 appearances across all competitions. Nkota scored twice and provided three assists during that campaign.

His return gives him the opportunity to rebuild his form at Orlando Pirates while also trying to re-establish himself in the Bafana Bafana squad.

Nkota had been nursing his way back to fitness, and the loan move will allow him to work towards regaining his sharpness in surroundings he already knows. The agreement means he will spend the season with the Buccaneers after his time in the Saudi Pro League.

For Orlando Pirates, the deal brings back a player who is already familiar with the club and who has experience at international level with Bafana Bafana. For Nkota, it represents a chance to regain regular momentum and push for a return to the national-team set-up.

Al Ettifaq confirmed that the winger would join Orlando Pirates for the season, while the Buccaneers formally welcomed him back.

Nkota’s immediate focus will be on recovering his best form and fitness. His performances during the loan spell could also influence his prospects of returning to the Bafana Bafana squad.

The winger’s previous season with Al Ettifaq included 22 appearances, two goals and three assists in all competitions. He now returns to Orlando Pirates with the objective of building on that experience and restoring his place among the club’s and country’s leading options.