Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has addressed swirling speculation around the future of rising star Relebohile Mofokeng, who continues to be linked with a possible move away from the Buccaneers.
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Mofokeng, 20, remains one of South African football’s brightest young talents and has attracted interest from clubs abroad after a string of impressive performances last season.
However, despite the transfer noise, the teenager was named in Pirates’ official 34-man squad for the 2025/26 season and featured in their 2-0 MTN8 quarter-final victory over Polokwane City this past weekend.
Speaking at the Betway Premiership launch, Ouaddou offered a measured response to the speculation, while reiterating the player’s importance to his plans.
“Well, you know, I read this news as well. A talent like him will always attract a lot of clubs,” the Moroccan tactician said.
“But I trust my board, I trust the club, because definitely he is one of our major players this season and we need him.”
Ouaddou continued, “To compete at the highest level, we need this kind of player in our team. As coach, I’m still confident, but in football, you never know. Still, I hope and believe he will stay with us. We will see.”
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