Relebohile Mofokeng Opens Up About Hugo Broos’ Advice After Completing Move to Royale Union Saint-Gilloise

Relebohile Mofokeng has revealed the valuable advice he received from Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos after completing his highly anticipated move from Orlando Pirates to Belgian champions Royale Union Saint-Gilloise. The talented 21-year-old midfielder is set to begin a new chapter in his career after securing a major transfer ahead of the 2026/27 season. His move to one of Belgium’s top clubs represents a significant milestone for both the player and South African football, with many believing it is the ideal platform for him to continue his development. Mofokeng has been regarded as one of the country’s brightest young talents for several years, and his decision to pursue a career in Europe has been widely welcomed. The youngster has now confirmed that Broos fully supports the move and has pledged to assist him whenever needed as he adapts to life in Belgium.

For some time, Mofokeng had been strongly linked with a move to Europe, but he chose to remain at Orlando Pirates in order to achieve one of his major ambitions. Instead of leaving at the earliest opportunity, the attacking midfielder stayed with the Buccaneers and played a key role in helping the club lift the Betway Premiership title. That decision demonstrated both his loyalty and determination to leave South Africa after accomplishing an important objective with the club that nurtured his talent. Once that goal had been achieved, the timing was finally right to make the leap to European football. His transfer to Royale Union Saint-Gilloise now gives him the opportunity to compete in one of Europe’s respected leagues while continuing his football education at a higher level.

Hugo Broos has consistently encouraged South Africa’s most talented players to test themselves overseas, believing that competing in stronger leagues ultimately benefits the national team. Throughout his time as Bafana Bafana coach, the experienced Belgian tactician has repeatedly spoken about the importance of young players gaining international experience. Broos has long viewed Mofokeng as one of the country’s most gifted footballers and publicly stated on several occasions that he hoped to see the youngster move abroad. His belief has always been that regular exposure to European football improves technical ability, tactical awareness and mental strength. For Broos, Mofokeng’s move represents another positive step in raising the overall standard of South African football.

Speaking during an interview on Metro FM, Mofokeng explained that he had already informed Broos about the transfer before it became official. According to the young midfielder, the national team coach immediately expressed his approval and described the transfer as an excellent career move. Broos also advised him to continue working harder than ever before, reminding him that success in Europe requires extra dedication and commitment. Perhaps most importantly, the Bafana coach assured Mofokeng that he would always be available whenever the player needed advice or support. That offer reflects the close relationship Broos has built with several members of the national team and highlights his commitment to helping South African players succeed beyond the national squad.

Broos is uniquely positioned to provide guidance because of his extensive experience within Belgian football. Before becoming a respected coach, he enjoyed a distinguished playing career as a defender, making more than 500 top-flight appearances for Belgian giants RSC Anderlecht and Club Brugge. His success on the pitch was followed by an equally impressive coaching career that established him as one of Belgium’s most respected football figures. Over the years, Broos won three Belgian First Division titles and two Belgian Cups while managing some of the country’s biggest clubs, including Club Brugge, Anderlecht and KRC Genk. His knowledge of Belgian football culture, playing style and expectations makes his advice especially valuable for a young player beginning his European journey.

Moving to Belgium presents both exciting opportunities and significant challenges for Mofokeng. The Belgian Pro League has developed a reputation as one of Europe’s strongest leagues for nurturing young talent before players move to even bigger competitions. Clubs in Belgium are known for giving emerging footballers opportunities to develop while competing at a high level both domestically and in European competitions. Mofokeng will be expected to adjust quickly to a faster style of football, increased tactical demands and the physical intensity of the European game. His technical ability, creativity and confidence on the ball have already impressed supporters in South Africa, but consistency and hard work will now determine how far he can progress.

The move also means Mofokeng will not be alone in representing South Africa in Belgium. He joins fellow South African Shandre Campbell, who currently plays for Belgian powerhouse Club Brugge. Having another South African competing successfully in the same league could provide additional motivation as Mofokeng settles into his new surroundings. The presence of South African players in respected European competitions continues to inspire the next generation of footballers hoping to follow a similar path. Their success abroad also strengthens the profile of South African football and demonstrates that local talent can compete at a high international level.

For Orlando Pirates, Mofokeng’s departure marks the end of an important chapter but also serves as proof of the club’s ability to develop elite players capable of earning moves overseas. During his time with the Buccaneers, the young midfielder established himself as one of the Premier Soccer League’s most exciting performers through his creativity, vision and attacking flair. His performances attracted attention from clubs beyond South Africa, eventually leading to his transfer to Royale Union Saint-Gilloise. While Pirates supporters will undoubtedly miss his influence on the field, many will take pride in seeing another academy product earn an opportunity to shine in Europe. His success could also encourage more young players to view the club as a pathway to international football.

Relebohile Mofokeng’s move to Royale Union Saint-Gilloise represents one of the biggest transfers involving a South African player in recent years and could prove to be a defining moment in his career. With Hugo Broos offering both his support and expert guidance, the talented midfielder begins this new challenge with the backing of one of Belgian football’s most respected figures. The advice to work even harder and remain focused reflects the demanding nature of European football, where talent alone is rarely enough to guarantee success. As Mofokeng prepares to represent both his new club and South Africa on a bigger stage, expectations will naturally be high. If he continues to develop at the same rate shown during his time at Orlando Pirates, this move could become the foundation for an outstanding career in European football and an even greater future with Bafana Bafana.