With Relebohile Mofokeng linked with a possible move to Major League Soccer, here are other South Africans who have plied their trade in the topflight of American football.
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Earlier this week, reports emerged that Minnesota United had submitted a $2 million (R35.4 million) bid for the prodigious youngster, as they look to make a major move before the transfer window closes.
It remains to be seen how receptive Orlando Pirates will be to an offer from the United States, with Soccer Laduma previously revealing their stance that Mofokeng should ideally move to one of Europe’s top five leagues. Should they sanction the switch to the Western Conference outfit, however, the 19-year-old would follow in the footsteps of a number of South Africans who have showcased their talents in North America.
He would immediately link up with compatriot Bongokuhle Hlongwane, who has established himself as a key figure at Allianz Field. Since his arrival in 2022, the 25-year-old has made 118 MLS appearances, scoring 24 goals and registering 13 assists.
His tally makes him the third most-capped South African in MLS history, and should he maintain his current trajectory, he could well climb to the top of that list in the near future.
Another example is 1996 Africa Cup of Nations winner Shaun Bartlett, who also used MLS as a stepping stone to Europe. After his spell with New York MetroStars, Bartlett returned briefly to Cape Town Spurs before moving to Switzerland’s FC Zurich — with his time in America likely playing a role in drawing attention from European suitors.
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The Capetonian notched 10 goals and seven assists in 49 MLS appearances.