Mofokeng’s multimillion euro move lifts mood in SA U23 camp

By Velile Mnyandu
4th July 2026

The multimillion-euro transfer of Bafana Bafana and Orlando Pirates star Relebohile “Captain Yama 2k” Mofokeng to Belgian giants Royale Union Saint-Gilloise is inspiring for his generation and closest mates.

Former South African junior international and Kaizer Chiefs young attacking sensation Mfundo “Obrigado” Vilakazi was one that couldn’t hide his excitement at Mofokeng’s move, and the journey he’s travelled to achieve it.

Mofokeng completed his move to Union SG this week, reportedly over R70million, with Pirates confirming that the club-to-club agreement was already sealed before the FIFA World Cup in the Americas.

The 21year-old’s move also makes things easier for the national team coaches, like SA U20 and U23 head coach Raymond Mdaka, as they continue to build the next generation of young footballers in the country...

"I'm telling you if we can continue working like this as a country we are still going to have a lot of players who will go abroad, and it's only the youngsters who are going. Rele is part of a whole new breed and represents the future of this country."

READ: Black Stars bow out after 1-0 defeat to Colombia in World Cup last 32

Mofokeng (21), hailing from Sharpeville in the Vaal area, joined the Pirates youth development structures from the Transnet School of Excellence (now Africa School of Excellence) in 2022 and went on to make his senior team debut under the tutelage of then Bucs head coach Jose Riveiro.

Another School of Excellence product who joined Pirates shortly after Mofokeng is also making his name in the famous black and white jersey, is midfielder Camren Dansin, and he is understandably inspired by this move...

"It just shows that hard work pays off. Rele has been very consistent and it's very inspiring to see him make the move overseas - it's something I dream about as a player."

One of the country’s best up-and-coming left-wing-backs, Neo Rapoo, recently joined Pirates from Siwelele and is expected to be a hit with the Ghost this season. Speaking from the U23 camp, where he’s one of the captains and senior players, Rapoo is inspired by Mofokeng’s move, and perhaps it justifies why his move to Pirates is the perfect route to follow as well...