Orlando Pirates‘ star winger Mohau Nkota made an expected return to Soweto last month. The Kimberly-born attacker signed a season-long loan deal from Saudi-Arabian side Al-Ettifaq.
The 21-year-old arrived nursing a knee injury. Following a month in the clubs’ doctor’s room, Nkota was spotted taking full training this week.
MOHAU NKOTA’S ORLANDO PIRATES JERSEY NUMBER SPOTTED
The winger was spotted with jersey number 21. It became available after Deano Van Rooyen left the Buccaneers on 21 August. Nkota’s previous jersey number was 33 before he made his shock move to West Asia ahead of last season.
Also read: How Mohau Nkota can break into the Orlando Pirates line up
During his first stint with the Sea Robbers, Nkota delivered seven goals and five assists in 39 games. He memorably scored a brace on debut against AmaZulu FC in 2024. Another brace followed on his CAF Champions League debut away to CR Belouizdad in Algeria.
WHAT HAPPENED IN SAUDI-ARABIA?
Mohau Nkota enjoyed a memorable spell at Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq after making a high-profile move from Orlando Pirates.
The winger made an immediate impact. He scored just seven minutes into his league debut during a 2–1 victory over Al-Kholood. The goal made him the first South African footballer to score in the Saudi Pro League, etching his name into the competition’s history.
Nkota went on to make 22 appearances, scoring two goals and providing three assists during his time at the club.
However, his progress suffered a major setback when he sustained a serious knee injury that required surgery, ruling him out for the final stretch of the season.
Although Nkota returned to training ahead of the new campaign, Al-Ettifaq opted to prioritise his match fitness and long-term development. He has since returned to Orlando Pirates on a season-long loan, giving him the opportunity to regain consistent game time.
DO YOU BELEIVE HE WILL RETURN TO ASIA?
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