‘Rele is mentally affected!’ – Top analyst analyses Mofokeng’s initial struggles

Orlando Pirates youngster Relebohile Mofokeng has not been at his best since the 2025/26 South African top-flight season started on August 2.

The Bafana Bafana international has been the Sea Robbers' key player for the last two seasons across all competitions. He has been heavily linked with a move away from the Soweto giants, but things are not moving as anticipated.

In contrast to Mofokeng, another youngster, Mohau Nkota made his debut at Bucs just last season, shone, and is now turning out for Al-Ettifac in the Saudi Pro League. That move, according to former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye, has affected the output of Mofokeng since he is negatively affected.

‘It is not easy for Mofokeng to accept that!'

“I think the fact that Nkota arrived and left [overseas] after his first season has affected him [Rele]. I think the fact that Nkota arrived and left [overseas] after his first season has affected him,” he told iDiski TV.

“I’m a human; I’m black. I know other people will say, ‘the player is getting paid very well’, but for me, I know I’ve been a footballer before, it has affected the boy. They can say whatever they want. Whoever says what, it’s not easy for him to accept that [Nkota is overseas].

“This boy was the face of Orlando Pirates as a youngster figure, so for another boy to arrive who was maybe second best to him, and then leave, it has affected him psychologically. He’s not himself,” Khanye concluded. 

Mofokeng is expected to deliver on Tuesday night when Pirates play Marumo Gallants in the Premier Soccer League outing.