Charles Esther
Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye has suggested that Releboheng Mofokeng’s slow start to the season with Orlando Pirates is linked to Mohau Nkota’s move overseas.
Both players previously featured for the Buccaneers’ Diski Challenge side before breaking into the senior team.
From Teammates to Separate Paths
Mofokeng was promoted to the first team in 2023, while Nkota joined a year later and quickly made his mark before securing a transfer to Saudi Arabia last month.
Speaking on iDiski TV, Khanye said Mofokeng may have been unsettled by seeing his former teammate secure an overseas move before him.
Psychological Effects on the Young Star
“I think the fact that Nkota arrived and left for overseas after his first season has affected him,” Khanye explained.
“People can say he’s paid well, but as someone who played football, I know it’s not easy to accept. He’s not himself right now.”
From Face of the Club to Playing Catch-Up
According to Khanye, Mofokeng was once seen as the face of Orlando Pirates’ next generation.
Having another young player arrive, impress, and then depart abroad may have impacted him mentally and emotionally.
Previous Season Success vs Current Struggles
Last season, both Nkota and Mofokeng contributed over 20 goals combined across all competitions under coach Jose Riveiro.
However, in the current campaign, Mofokeng has yet to impress in the two matches he has played under new coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.
Can He Bounce Back?
Khanye’s comments raise the question of whether Mofokeng needs to rediscover his form at Pirates or push for an overseas opportunity of his own.
