Pirates still feeling the loss of Mofokeng, says club legend Ramokadi

Orlando Pirates legend Bruce Ramokadi says Relebohile Mofokeng’s departure has left a noticeable gap in the club’s attack, although he believes replacing a player of his influence cannot be achieved simply by bringing in a direct substitute.

Pirates have not appeared as threatening in front of goal as they did last season, with Mofokeng’s absence increasingly evident since his transfer to Royale Union Saint-Gilloise.

The 21-year-old, who was born in Sharpeville, scored 11 goals and provided nine assists in all competitions before moving to Belgium. His performances earned him both the Footballer of the Season and Players’ Player of the Season awards for the 2025/26 campaign.

Losing the reigning Footballer of the Season was always likely to affect Pirates, who have made several new signings but have not significantly altered the personnel used in their recent line-ups.

Patrick Maswanganyi has been given the number 10 role previously occupied by Mofokeng. However, the Buccaneers’ attacking play has yet to reach the same level of creativity and threat seen during the previous campaign.

Ramokadi told KickOff that Pirates should not focus on finding a player who replicates everything Mofokeng brought to the team. Instead, he argued that the club must add different qualities and adapt its approach.

“He (Mofokeng) was a key player, to be honest but unfortunately you can’t replace anyone and you don’t have to replace anyone you just have to add whoever is going to play to bring a different dimension,” Ramokadi said.

“Because you can’t play the same as last season, PSL clubs already know how you play, so you must change, as much as you sign new players every season, because you need change now and then.

“But for now it is evident that he carried a lot of creativity and he was the one who could pick up the spirit on the pitch and of the supporters also,” Ramokadi added.

His comments underline the broader challenge facing Pirates as opponents become increasingly familiar with the team’s style. While the club has brought in new players, its recent selections suggest that a major tactical or personnel overhaul has not yet taken place.

There is growing anticipation among Pirates supporters over the integration of new signing Sebastien Pedersen. The Norwegian striker is expected to provide greater firepower in attack, with fans hoping he can help address the shortcomings that have become more apparent since Mofokeng’s move to Royale Union Saint-Gilloise.

For Ramokadi, however, the issue is not simply a matter of replacing one individual. Mofokeng’s contribution went beyond his goals and assists, with his ability to create opportunities and lift the mood of both his team-mates and the supporters making his departure particularly difficult to overcome.

Pirates must now find a way to develop a different attacking identity while maintaining their competitiveness in the PSL.