Royale Union Saint-Gilloise Tease Relebohile Mofokeng Arrival as Jersey Number 38 Emerges
Belgian football giants Royale Union Saint-Gilloise appear to have taken another significant step toward officially unveiling South African star Relebohile Mofokeng. Although the club has not yet formally introduced the attacking midfielder, recent activity on its social media platforms has fueled excitement among supporters in both Belgium and South Africa. A teaser video showing a jersey being printed has sparked widespread speculation that Mofokeng’s announcement is imminent. The number featured in the video has drawn particular attention, with many believing it confirms the shirt number the talented youngster will wear at his new club. The latest development suggests that one of South Africa’s biggest football transfers is now entering its final stages.
The teaser released by Royale Union Saint-Gilloise was subtle but carried a clear message. The club published a short video showing the preparation of a jersey bearing the number 38, a number closely associated with Mofokeng during his successful spell at Orlando Pirates. Although the player’s name was not shown, the connection was immediately made by supporters who have followed the transfer closely. Retaining the same jersey number could help preserve an important part of Mofokeng’s football identity as he begins his European journey. The video has generated considerable anticipation ahead of what is expected to be the club’s official announcement.
Reports indicate that Mofokeng is already in Belgium, where he has successfully completed his medical examination. He is now expected to finalize personal terms before signing a four-year contract with Royale Union Saint-Gilloise. Completing the medical is often one of the final steps in any professional football transfer, meaning the move appears to be very close to becoming official. Once the paperwork has been completed and contracts are signed, the Belgian club is expected to present the South African international as one of its newest additions. Supporters from both clubs are eagerly awaiting confirmation that the transfer has been finalized.
Mofokeng arrives in Europe after enjoying an outstanding season with Orlando Pirates. The 21-year-old established himself as one of the most exciting attacking players in the Betway Premiership through a series of impressive performances. Across 27 league appearances, he scored 10 goals while also providing eight assists, highlighting both his finishing ability and creativity. His influence extended beyond individual statistics, as he consistently produced decisive moments during important matches. Those performances attracted interest from clubs abroad and ultimately paved the way for his move to Belgium.
His contributions were also instrumental in Orlando Pirates’ domestic success during the season. The Soweto club celebrated a remarkable campaign by winning the Betway Premiership title while also lifting the MTN8 and the Carling Knockout trophies. Mofokeng played a key role throughout those competitions, regularly delivering match-winning displays and demonstrating maturity beyond his years. His technical ability, vision and confidence made him one of the standout performers in South African football. Winning multiple trophies before departing for Europe provides him with an ideal platform from which to begin the next stage of his career.
Mofokeng also enhanced his growing reputation on the international stage during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. As a member of the Bafana Bafana squad, he contributed to South Africa’s historic campaign that saw the national team reach the Round of 32 for the first time ever. Competing against some of the world’s strongest teams provided valuable experience that will benefit him as he adjusts to European football. His performances demonstrated that he possesses the confidence and composure required to perform under intense pressure. The World Cup exposure further strengthened his reputation among international scouts and football clubs.
Royale Union Saint-Gilloise has built a reputation in recent years as one of Belgium’s most ambitious clubs. The team has consistently challenged for domestic honors while also competing in European competitions, making it an attractive destination for talented young players seeking to develop their careers. The Belgian Pro League is widely regarded as an excellent environment for emerging footballers because it combines strong competition with opportunities for regular first-team football. For Mofokeng, the move offers a chance to continue improving his game while testing himself against higher levels of opposition. Success in Belgium could open even bigger opportunities in some of Europe’s leading leagues.
The transfer also carries historical significance for South African football. By joining Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, Mofokeng follows in the footsteps of former Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana star Percy Tau, who represented the Belgian club during loan spells from Brighton and Hove Albion in the 2018 and 2019 seasons. Tau’s time at Union helped establish his reputation in Europe before progressing further in his career. Mofokeng will hope to enjoy a similarly successful journey while creating his own legacy at the club. His arrival also reinforces the growing reputation of South African footballers within European football.
The anticipation surrounding Relebohile Mofokeng’s official unveiling continues to build as every indication points toward the completion of his move to Royale Union Saint-Gilloise. The club’s jersey teaser featuring the number 38 has only increased excitement among supporters eager to welcome one of Africa’s brightest young talents. With a successful medical reportedly completed and a four-year contract expected to be signed, the transfer appears to be entering its final stages. Mofokeng leaves Orlando Pirates after an exceptional period filled with individual success, team trophies and international recognition. His move to Belgium represents an exciting new chapter for both the player and South African football, with many believing he has the talent to make a lasting impact in European football.
