With Mohau Nkota having recently completed a move to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ettifaq FC, and Relebohile Mofokeng strongly linked with a potential overseas transfer, Orlando Pirates appear to be planning ahead by promoting another highly rated youngster from their ranks – Neo Mokoena.
As confirmed by the player’s representatives, P Management Sports on X, Mokoena has officially signed a first team contract with the Soweto giants, becoming the latest talent to graduate from the DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) setup to the senior squad.
Read: Latest On Chiefs And Ighodaro Amid Transfer Chatter
This strategic move comes at a time when the Buccaneers are preparing for a demanding season across five competitions – the CAF Champions League, Betway Premiership, Nedbank Cup, MTN8, and Carling Knockout.
The timing suggests that the club is looking to refresh its attacking options while maintaining a steady flow of youth into the first team.
Sources close to the club believe Mokoena’s promotion could be part of the response to Nkota’s exit, and a possible contingency for Mofokeng, who turned heads during the club’s recent pre-season tour of Spain and is believed to be attracting strong interest from abroad. Mofokeng’s outstanding 2024/25 campaign saw him receive five PSL award nominations, further fuelling speculation that a move could materialise during the current transfer window.
Mokoena’s elevation is a continuation of Pirates’ youth development strategy, which has already seen the likes of Mofokeng, Nkota, Thabiso Sesane, Siyabonga Ndlozi, and Boitumelo Radiopane step into the first team.
While no official word has come from Pirates regarding Mofokeng’s future or additional exits, the signs are clear that the club is working proactively to maintain depth and continuity as the new season approaches.
Read: Pirates Wrap Up Spanish Tour On A High – Who Impressed Along The Way?
The Siya crew will continue to monitor Mokoena’s integration and any developments surrounding Mofokeng’s potential move abroad.
Orlando Pirates were contacted for comment, but no response was received at the time of publishing.
