Relebohile Mofokeng: Quick Belgium exit predicted for ex-Pirates star

Relebohile Mofokeng has just started a new chapter of his career in Belgium but a Bafana Bafana legend is already predicting a move away soon.

Mofokeng ended his highly-successful four-year spell with Orlando Pirates when he sealed a summer transfer to Royale Union Saint-Gilloise and has started life at his new team in fine fashion.

He has already won the Belgian Super Cup, when he scored the winning penalty as Union Saint-Gilloise beat Club Brugge on post-match shootouts, and he has two goals in six matches.

Relebohile Mofokeng celebrates his debut league goal for Royale Union Saint-Gilloise. Photo: Union SG

As he continues to get used to life in Belgium and familiarises with his new fans, Bafana Bafana legend Shaun Bartlett feels the winger-cum attacking midfielder will be on the move again in a not-so-distant future.

Ex-Pirates ace backed for higher league

Bartlett, who enjoyed a good career in Europe, playing for Swiss side FC Zurich, before moving to Charlton Athletic, when they played in the Premier League, says the dynamics of football currently make it easy for players to get spotted and it might not be long before Mofokeng secures a big move if he lights up the Belgian Pro League.

Relebohile Mofokeng playing for Royale Union Saint-Gilloise. Photo: Royal Union SG

“Rele has just gone to Belgium, and by January [2027], he could be in a higher league,” Bartlett predicted during an interview with FARPost.

“It depends on how quickly he settles in and the performances he puts in. So, it’s all about the player and how they really adapt and take it on board.”

Quick move for Mofokeng possible

Mofokeng signed a four-year contract when he joined Union Saint-Gilloise but the former Bafana striker sees him leaving much earlier.

Relebohile Mofokeng when he was unveiled by Belgian side Royale Union Saint-Gilloise. Photo: Royale Union Saint-Gilloise

“It doesn’t even have to be three years. With the amount of exposure you get nowadays, it’s not even from television,” he added.

“Now, with a simple phone, you can even record something and post it on social media, and then it goes viral. So, it doesn’t have to be three years.

“I always say it’s all about timing. When you do well and when other clubs need a certain player, if the timing is right, they will sign you and add you to their team. I think that was even the fortunate thing about me going to England.”