Abdeslam Ouaddou Responds to Transfer Talk Surrounding Relebohile Mofokeng
Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has addressed growing speculation over the future of 20-year-old star Relebohile Mofokeng, who has been linked with a potential move abroad.
Mofokeng emerged as one of South Africa’s standout young talents last season, delivering consistent performances that drew attention from overseas clubs. Despite the transfer rumours, he was included in Pirates’ official 34-man squad for the 2025/26 campaign and featured in their 2-0 MTN8 quarter-final win over Polokwane City last weekend.
Speaking at the Betway Premiership launch, Ouaddou stressed the player’s importance to his squad while acknowledging the interest he has attracted.
“Well, you know, I read this news as well. A talent like him will always attract a lot of clubs,” said the Moroccan coach. “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 emphasised that keeping players of Mofokeng’s calibre is key to competing at the highest level. “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.”
Mofokeng’s future remains a talking point as the transfer window progresses, but for now, he looks set to play a central role in Pirates’ push for silverware this season.
