Relebohile Mofokeng Rejected R15,000 Sundowns Offer Before Choosing Orlando Pirates

Relebohile Mofokeng Turned Down Sundowns Offer as Pirates Won the Race for His Signature

South African football has witnessed several talented youngsters struggle to fulfil their potential, but Relebohile Mofokeng's remarkable rise is a reminder of what can happen when talent meets the right opportunity. The Bafana Bafana star could have started his professional journey at Mamelodi Sundowns before ultimately choosing Orlando Pirates, according to revelations from his father, Sechaba Mofokeng.

The story has attracted attention because Sundowns reportedly presented the youngster with an opportunity to join their youth structures, including an offer of R15,000, but the proposed pathway did not convince him to commit to the Tshwane giants.

According to Sechaba, the plan was for his son to begin with the club's Under-19 team before earning promotion to the reserve side competing in the DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) if he impressed.

“Motsepe wanted him to play for the U19s and offered him R15,000 – and if he did well, they would promote him to the reserve team in the DDC,” Sechaba explained.

The offer demonstrated that Sundowns recognised the youngster's potential and were prepared to invest in his development. However, the opportunity to progress through the ranks was not enough to secure his signature.

Pirates' opportunity changed everything

Mofokeng eventually joined Orlando Pirates, where his development accelerated and he gradually established himself as one of the country's most exciting attacking talents.

The Buccaneers gave him an opportunity to develop within their youth structures before introducing him to senior football. His breakthrough demonstrated the importance of providing promising players with a clear pathway towards first-team opportunities.

Mofokeng made his senior debut for Pirates in May 2023 and quickly became an influential figure at the Soweto giants. His technical ability, creativity, close control and confidence on the ball made him a dangerous attacking player capable of changing matches.

His performances also earned him recognition at international level, with the winger becoming an important part of the Bafana Bafana setup.

Sundowns missed out on a special talent

The revelation adds another chapter to the discussion surrounding how South Africa's biggest clubs identify and develop young players.

Sundowns possess considerable resources and an established football structure, but Mofokeng's story highlights how recruitment decisions and opportunities can influence a youngster's career.

Pirates ultimately benefited from securing his services, with the player going on to win major trophies and attract interest from overseas clubs.

In July 2026, Pirates confirmed an agreement for his transfer to Belgian side Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, marking another significant step in his career.

For Sundowns, the story offers a reminder that promising youngsters require more than financial incentives. A clear development pathway and opportunities to prove themselves can be equally important.

For Pirates, securing Mofokeng's signature proved to be a valuable decision, helping transform a talented youngster into one of South African football's most recognisable names.

Source https://x.com/iDiskiTimes/status/2114789748023693713