With various new signings at Orlando Pirates, fans cannot help but speculate that the team is preparing for the departure of talented youngster, Rele Mofokeng.
The 2024/25 football season saw Orlando Pirates pull off an impressive performance as they finished second behind the dominant Mamelodi Sundowns in the Betway Premier Soccer League (PSL). The Buccaneers were also crowned as the MTN 8 champions.
Among the players who took to the pitch to show off their talent and skills was 20-year-old midfielder, Rele Mofokeng. He stood out as one of the youngsters to look out for, as he consistently and impressively executed his role in the Buccaneers’ midfield with precision.
The youngster finished the season with 12 goals and 15 assists, and has quickly garnered a reputation for his speed, football IQ, willingness to take risks, and capitalising on his opponents’ weaknesses.
His historic performance not only earned him a spot in the senior national team, which is looking to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but also saw him collect accolades such as Sports Personality of the Year at the 2024 Gauteng Sports Awards.
After this generational showcase of skill, supporters of the game could not help but wonder what Mofokeng’s future holds, as they expressed that they believe his level of talent would not allow him to remain with Orlando Pirates for much longer. There has also been an overwhelming interest in him from numerous clubs from across the world.
As preparations for the upcoming season take place, the Soweto-based club revealed that they have put together seven new signings, which include controversial former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Sipho Mbule, as well as Polokwane City’s Oswin Appollis, who had captured the attention of various teams, including Orlando Pirates’ rivals Kaizer Chiefs.
Orlando Pirates is pleased to welcome 𝐎𝐬𝐰𝐢𝐧 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐬
⚫⚪🔴⭐#OrlandoPirates #OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/bqqWHRPnCs
— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) July 2, 2025
These moves by the Buccaneers have raised some eyebrows from some fans and media, as many speculate that they have to do with preparing for a squad with no Mofokeng. According to these individuals, with Rele and Oswin playing in similar positions, it is not likely that Pirates would utilise them simultaneously, considering both their style of playing.
Orlando Pirates signing Oswin Appollis could only mean one thing:
Relebohile Mofokeng is really leaving pic.twitter.com/ZkoWFyuPhz
— Babe (@PulseOnX) July 2, 2025
Now that Orlando Pirates has FINALLY signed Oswin Appollis
There might be a chance that we’ll be losing our starboy Rele Mofokeng because there’s definitely interest in him
They both play the same position #OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/NxP1jgvVXe
— Nashe 🅿️🏴☠️ (@TmCiteilife) July 2, 2025
Oswin Appollis signing by Orlando Pirates signals that Rele Mofokeng is leaving.🏴☠️☠️🔥 pic.twitter.com/PcrouXo3mu
— Ronald Mahlatse Ledwaba (@LedwabaRonald) July 2, 2025
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