Orlando Pirates legend Sebola backs Mofokeng for European switch after stellar campaign

Former Orlando Pirates striker Andries Sebola has called on club chairman Dr Irvin Khoza to allow rising star Relebohile Mofokeng to pursue an opportunity abroad, insisting the youngster has already done enough to earn a move overseas following a standout campaign.

Mofokeng played a key role as Orlando Pirates secured the league title for the first time since the 2011/12 season, ending a 14-year wait in a season that also delivered a domestic treble for the Soweto giants.

The Buccaneers capped off their memorable campaign with a 2-0 victory over Orbit College at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday, a result that confirmed their place at the top of South African football after years of chasing Mamelodi Sundowns’ dominance.

For Sebola, the time has come for the club to reward the young midfielder with a chance to take the next step in his career abroad, arguing that his performances have outgrown the domestic stage.

He believes the 20-year-old has already proven his value at the highest level in South African football and should not be denied an opportunity to test himself internationally.

“It’s the right time for him to leave,” Sebola said. “I believe Dr Khoza may have wanted to keep him for the title push, but now he has done his part. He deserves a chance to go overseas.”

Sebola also pointed to Mofokeng’s impressive statistics, highlighting his contribution as one of the most productive players in the squad despite operating primarily from midfield.

“For a midfielder to end up as the club’s top scorer, that says everything,” he added. “He has earned this move, and I think he should be allowed to take that opportunity.”

Mofokeng enjoyed a breakthrough season, registering 10 league goals and eight assists from 27 appearances, while also collecting six man-of-the-match awards across the campaign. His performances have positioned him as one of the leading contenders for end-of-season individual honours.

His influence was crucial in Pirates’ title charge, as the club finally ended Sundowns’ long-standing grip on the league while also lifting multiple domestic trophies under head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.

Sebola, however, warned that Pirates cannot afford to become complacent heading into the next season, stressing that the competition is expected to intensify.

He suggested that Kaizer Chiefs could emerge as serious challengers if they strengthen their squad and appoint the right leadership, while also reminding Pirates that their title win was partly aided by Sundowns dropping points in key matches.

“Next season won’t just be about Sundowns,” Sebola said. “Chiefs will also be in the mix if they recruit well and get the right coach.”

“Pirates must also remember that Sundowns drew too many games. If that hadn’t happened, the title race could have looked very different. They need to improve again next season.”

Pirates’ triumph has now set the stage for an intense new chapter in the PSL, with expectations rising as rivals prepare to respond to the Buccaneers’ return to domestic dominance.