In a landmark move for South African football, Orlando Pirates have officially confirmed an agreement for the transfer of their star attacking midfielder, Relebohile Mofokeng, to the Belgian Pro League side Royale Union Saint-Gilloise.
The transfer, which had been agreed upon in principle prior to the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, remained under wraps until the conclusion of Bafana Bafana's historic tournament campaign to ensure the 21-year-old remained focused on his international duties. With the national team's journey now concluded, Mofokeng has traveled to Belgium to undergo a medical examination and finalise the personal terms of what is reported to be four-year contract.
A rapid rise to stardom
Mofokeng's journey to European football has been nothing short of meteoric. Rising through the Transnet School of Excellence before joining the Orlando Pirates youth academy in 2021, he quickly transitioned from the club's DStv Diski Challenge reserve team to a cornerstone of the senior squad.
Since making his professional debut late in the 2022-23 season, Mofokeng has become a household name in South Africa. Known for his elite dribbling, close control, and tactical versatility, he has developed into a multi-dimensional threat, capable of operating as an attacking midfielder, a playmaker, or a winger.
Career milestones and impact
During his tenure with the Buccaneers, Mofokeng established himself as one of the most decorated young players in local history. He has made 125 appearances for Orlando Pirates since his 2023 breakthrough, tallying 29 goals and 31 assists while maintaining a consistent goal-contribution rate.
His trophy cabinet is equally impressive, featuring a key role in the 2025-26 league title win, alongside multiple Nedbank Cup and MTN 8 titles. Furthermore, he secured back-to-back South African Premiership Young Player of the Season awards in 2024 and 2025. Notably, Mofokeng holds the record as the youngest player in PSL history to score in three domestic cup finals, cementing his reputation as a “big-match player” who thrives under pressure.
The international stage
Mofokeng's transition to the national team has been equally impressive. Since his debut in June 2024, he has earned 16 caps for Bafana Bafana. His standout performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup – particularly his creative play during South Africa's landmark 1-0 victory over South Korea – drew significant attention from international scouts. His contributions were vital in helping Bafana Bafana advance to the knockout stages, a performance that served as the perfect springboard for his European transition.
New horizons in Belgium
Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, a team that has consistently competed for Belgian domestic honours and European football, views Mofokeng as a primary attacking prospect. He joins a club with strong South African ties, featuring staff members with deep roots in the PSL, such as Sporting Director Chris O'Loughlin, which is expected to aid his adaptation to the European game.
As he prepares to formalise the deal in Brussels, the move marks a significant milestone for the Orlando Pirates academy, proving once again its ability to produce world-class talent capable of making the jump to competitive European leagues.