Sometimes in football, a teammate’s journey can affect another player’s confidence and form — and that’s exactly what former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye thinks is happening with Orlando Pirates’ Releboheng Mofokeng.
Khanye believes that Mofokeng’s dip in form is connected to Mohau Nkota’s recent move overseas, and it’s something that’s weighing on the young midfielder’s mind more than fans might realize.
The Backstory: Nkota’s Rise and Sudden Departure
Both Mofokeng and Nkota started out playing together in the Pirates’ Diski Challenge team.
Mofokeng was promoted to the first team back in 2023, with Nkota joining a year later.
Nkota quickly made an impact but then surprised many by moving to Saudi Arabia just last month.
This sudden exit seems to have had a bigger emotional effect on Mofokeng than expected, especially since the two were competing for spots and success at the club.
Khanye Opens Up About the Psychological Impact
Speaking on iDiski TV, Khanye got personal about how this situation might be affecting Mofokeng.
He said, “I’m a human; I’m black. I know some people might say, ‘He’s earning well,’ but having been a footballer myself, I know how hard it is mentally.”
He explained that seeing Nkota leave for an overseas move after just one season made it tough for Mofokeng to accept, especially since Mofokeng was seen as a key young player for Pirates.
Mofokeng’s Form Has Taken a Hit
Khanye said, “He’s not himself right now. Mofokeng was the face of Pirates’ youth, and for someone who was maybe second to him to leave, it’s had a psychological toll.”
Last season, both Mofokeng and Nkota contributed over 20 goals combined under coach Jose Riveiro, making them vital players for the club’s attack.
What’s Next for Mofokeng This Season?
So far this season, with Abdeslam Ouaddou as the new coach, Mofokeng has struggled to find his rhythm in the two games he has featured.
Fans and analysts are now left wondering: can Releboheng bounce back and reclaim his form, or is a move overseas the right next step for him?