Orlando Pirates have announced they've reached an agreement with a Saudi Pro League club for the transfer of their young talent, Mohau Nkota.
This development unfolds as the Buccaneers are immersed in their pre-season camp in Spain, under the fresh leadership of new coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, who succeeded Jose Riveiro.
Amidst their ongoing squad adjustments and the arrival of new players for the upcoming campaign, Pirates have made a somewhat unexpected announcement regarding the permanent transfer of winger Mohau Nkota to Ettifaq Club.
The Buccaneers' official statement notes that the deal is subject to the DStv Diski Challenge graduate agreeing to personal terms and clearing a medical examination.
Nkota, currently with the team in Europe, was elevated to the senior squad last season by Riveiro. In his inaugural professional campaign, the young winger impressively featured in 39 matches, scoring seven goals and contributing five assists, highlighting his significant contribution in a short span.
PIRATES SURPRISINGLY ANNOUNCE THE TRANSFER OF NKOTA
“Orlando Pirates Football Club can confirm that an agreement has been reached for the permanent transfer of Mohau Nkota to Ettifaq Club in the Saudi Pro League,” the club confirmed via a statement.
“The move is subject to the 20-year-old agreeing to personal terms and passing a medical.
“Nkota’s departure comes after a standout debut season in the Buccaneers’ senior squad, where he featured in 39 official matches and registered 12 goal contributions.
“Promoted to the first team at the start of the 2024/25 campaign following a stellar showing with the Club’s DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) side, the Kimberley-born attacker quickly made his mark.
“He made his senior debut on October 19, 2024, in the Carling Black Label Cup clash against Magesi FC, coming off the bench at halftime to replace Monnapule Saleng. From that moment on, Nkota never looked back, earning a regular place under then-head coach Jose Riveiro.
“Among the many highlights of his breakthrough season were his two braces; one against AmaZulu in domestic competition, and the other on the continental stage against Algerian giants CR Belouizdad in the CAF Champions League. His goal against Belouizdad was widely celebrated as one of the best strikes of the 2024/25 TotalEnergies CAF Champions League campaign.
“Everyone at Orlando Pirates wishes Mohau Nkota the very best as he begins this exciting new chapter in his career. May he continue to soar and carry the Buccaneers’ spirit with pride – because remember: Once and Always!”
