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Relebohile Mofokeng has said his goodbyes. The 21-year-old attacker posted a heartfelt farewell message to Orlando Pirates on Instagram after completing a four-year move to Belgian club Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, with an option to extend for a further year. It draws the curtain on a three-year stay at the Buccaneers that delivered nine trophies, including last season's historic treble — the club's first in 14 years, which included the PSL title.
Mofokeng did not hold back. Writing with what he described as a heart full of gratitude, pride, and emotion, the Bafana Bafana international thanked the chairman, board, coaches, medical staff, teammates, sponsors, and the Ghost — Pirates' passionate supporter base — for everything they gave him during his time in black and white. He credited the club not just with developing his football but with shaping him as a person.
The line that will stick with Pirates fans came near the end of his message. 'I arrived at Orlando Pirates as Rele, I leave as Relebohile Mofokeng,' he wrote. 'Being part of the team has not only made me a better player, but a better person also.' That kind of clarity and maturity at 21 tells you exactly why Belgian football came calling.
Pirates, currently top of the PSL standings on 69 points after 30 games, now face the task of replacing one of their most exciting young talents as they push for more silverware next season. Mofokeng's next chapter starts in Belgium — but his story in South African football is far from forgotten.