Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye has commended Orlando Pirates
starlet Relebohile Mofokeng for displaying exceptional character and focus
amidst a period of significant change at the Soweto club.
In an exclusive interview, Khanye highlighted how Mofokeng has maintained
his development trajectory despite seeing former youth teammates like Mohau
Nkota and, most recently, Mbekezeli Mbokazi secure high-profile moves
abroad.
He was full of praise for Mbokazi, describing him as a top-tier talent.
“Taking nothing away from Mbokazi, that boy is one of the top talents we
have had in this country in a long time and he fully deserves his overseas
move,” Khanye said. “He has a big heart and strong character to match his
talent… With that quality and mentality, he can go very far.”
Khanye believes Mbokazi’s potential is limitless, suggesting a future move
to Spain is possible if he remains humble.
However, the focus of his admiration was firmly on Mofokeng’s resilience. “I
would really like to commend Relebohile Mofokeng for the player and the
person he is,” Khanye stated. “Despite everything that has happened around
him… he has managed to stay focused and continue improving his game.”
He acknowledged the psychological challenge for the young attacker. “It
can’t be easy when players come through development with you… and then
they leave for big moves abroad. First it was Nkota, now it’s Mbokazi, but
Rele is still doing well. That tells you a lot about the boy’s strong
heart.”
Pointing to Mofokeng’s tangible achievements—including winning the DStv
Premiership Young Player of the Season award and scoring the winning goal in
the Carling Knockout final—Khanye cited these as proof of his “commitment,
humility, dedication and discipline.”
Ultimately, Khanye suggested that Mofokeng’s delayed overseas move might be
a blessing, potentially leading to an even greater opportunity. “For me,
this delay could be a blessing in disguise for Rele. There could be
something even bigger coming for him,” he speculated. “I wouldn’t be
surprised if one day we see him in Spain, at a club like Barcelona or Real
Madrid.”
