A ‘difficult season’ that led Mohau Nkota to re-join Orlando Pirates

Orlando Pirates surprised the Premier Soccer League on Thursday following the re-signing of their former winger Mohau Nkota.

The Bafana Bafana international shone for the Soweto giants in the 203/24 season before being snapped up by the Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Ettifaq. However, things didn’t work out as expected owing to inconsistencies brought about by back-to-back injuries.

Despite the setbacks, the 21-year-old made 22 appearances across all competitions, with a return of two goals and three assists.

Nkota has been nursing his injury in Mzansi, hoping to get fit early enough to resume his duties on the pitch. But reuniting with the Sea Robbers was least expected by a majority of football lovers in the country.

Nkota’s Pirates return explained

“I think it’s all about what Mohau needs at this particular stage of his career and his life,” the player’s agent Karabo Tshabuse told SABC Sport.

“He has gone through a difficult season following the passing of his father, and coming back home gives him an opportunity to have a support structure around him, and most importantly, he will still play professional football at the highest level.”

Tshabuse further commented on the situation that made his client miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Bafana Bafana, co-hosted by Canada, the United States and Mexico.

“The injury did arrive at an unfortunate time, but such is life; it’s unpredictable. We believe the loan spell will help in Mohau’s ability to compete again for a spot in the national team and he’s going back to a place where he can get back to his best and rediscover his form.”

It will be interesting to see how coach Abdeslam Ouaddou will use the versatile youngster at Bucs.