The former Pirates midfielder is impressed by the way the 19-year-old has carried himself
Former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Teko Modise has advised South African youngsters to emulate the humility of Relebohile Mofokeng.
Mofokeng was impressive in the just-ended season for Pirates when he managed five goals and six assists and there are reports of a move abroad.
The youngster also earned his maiden national team call-up as he was included in the Bafana Bafana squad for the World Cup qualifiers against Nigeria and Zimbabwe, making his debut against the latter.
Amidst the fame and hype, Mofokeng has remained grounded and it is a trait that has left Modise impressed.
‘How quiet the boy is, that should be your motivation’
“[To SA youngsters] Rele should be your example, nobody else,” said Modise, as per FARpost.” If you look at Mofokeng, what he’s doing for Pirates, and how quiet the boy is, that should be your motivation.”
Modise is of the opinion that South African players lose their way when fame kicks in but is surprised that ‘Rele’ has not been swayed by all the attention he is getting at the moment.
“The limelight in SA always shortens the careers of SA players. We get to be known quickly because we’re televised, and friends and family are coming to watch us. So, we don’t have the drive anymore to be in the PSL,” he added.
“As a [young] footballer, that’s why I’m saying look at Rele. If we have to be honest about this, he’s the perfect example. I even follow the guy on Instagram. He’s still young, but he’s not all over the place.
Mofokeng is attracting interest from clubs in Europe and Egypt
“Look at him on the pitch; he does what he’s supposed to do. If you want to be famous, do those things that you want to be famous for. But if you want to be a good footballer, you want to be recognised; Rele should be your example.”
Mofokeng has attracted the interest of clubs overseas with Scottish giants Rangers, Austria’s RB Salzburg of and Egyptian giants Ahly among those reportedly considering signing him.
There is, however, divided opinion on whether it is the right time for the 19-year-old to leave South Africa and heading into next season, Rele and his representatives have a big decision to make.
