In a surprising revelation, Sechaba Mofokeng, father of Orlando Pirates rising star Relebohile Mofokeng, has disclosed how his son turned down Mamelodi Sundowns to join the Buccaneers – despite receiving no signing fee from the Soweto giants.
Speaking about the 19-year-old’s transfer origins, Mofokeng revealed: “Mamelodi Sundowns were first to approach us for Rele’s signature, but they delayed their follow-up. Pirates came next with immediate urgency – they told us if we didn’t call them by tomorrow, they’d come to us in person.”
The family presented both options to the young talent. “We told Rele: Sundowns and Pirates want you. Choose. Without hesitation he said ‘I want Pirates’,” Mofokeng recounted.
However, the signing process raised eyebrows. “When we saw the contract, there was no money offered – not even a stipend,” Mofokeng said, recalling how his wife questioned the terms. Pirates officials escalated the matter to chairman Irvin Khoza, who eventually approved minimal living expenses.
“The chairman called and said he’d provide money for toiletries and airtime. That’s how Rele’s Pirates journey began,” the father explained, highlighting the family’s faith in the club’s development plan over immediate financial gain.
The revelation provides rare insight into South African football’s recruitment realities, where promising youngsters often choose clubs based on career pathways rather than upfront payments. Mofokeng’s gamble appears justified – the teenager has become a first-team regular and recently trained with English Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Pirates’ youth development strategy, which emphasizes gradual integration over big-money signings, continues producing talents like Mofokeng while Sundowns’ cheque-book approach faces renewed scrutiny. As the young star’s career blossoms, his origin story serves as a testament to trusting sporting projects over instant rewards.
This disclosure comes amid growing debate about PSL clubs’ treatment of young talents, with many families reportedly pressured into unfavorable terms. Mofokeng’s case demonstrates how non-financial factors – like player preference and career vision – can determine career trajectories in South Africa’s competitive football landscape.
