Mohau Nkota’s rise from the Orlando Pirates development system to the international spotlight has been nothing short of dramatic. And now, after sealing a move to Saudi Arabia, the former Sea Robbers winger has earned praise from an unlikely yet influential voice: his former coach, Jose Riveiro.
At first glance, losing one of the brightest young talents in local football may feel like a blow to the Premier Soccer League. But Riveiro, who guided Nkota into senior football and watched him flourish, believes the player’s departure is actually a sign of progress.
A Rapid Rise From DDC To Global Football
Nkota’s story is familiar to many Pirates fans. Barely a year ago, he was turning heads in the DDC league, fighting his way back to fitness after a serious injury delayed his promotion to the first team.
By the end of the 2024/25 season, he had become one of the club’s most valuable young assets. With 39 senior appearances, seven goals and five assists in his debut campaign, the winger brought pace, versatility and fearlessness to a Pirates side pushing deep into the CAF Champions League.
His performances didn’t just earn admiration at club level. Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos fast-tracked him into the national setup, where the 21-year-old quickly began contributing ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
So when Saudi Pro League side Al Ettifaq came knocking, few were surprised. Nkota made the jump and has since settled comfortably, scoring twice and assisting twice in his first nine matches.
Why Riveiro Thinks Losing Talent Can Be A Good Thing
Speaking on Metro FM, Riveiro offered a perspective that has sparked plenty of conversation on social media.
Instead of lamenting Nkota’s departure, he celebrated it.
Riveiro argued that exporting young stars is a sign of a healthy football ecosystem. It opens doors for the next generation, attracts international attention and ultimately raises the level of South African football.
“It’s good for him and good for the league,” he said. “Young players moving abroad benefits everybody in the long run. You create space for someone else to come through.”
It’s a view supported by many local fans who’ve taken to X to say that seeing homegrown talent succeed globally brings pride to communities and raises the reputation of the PSL. Others remain cautious, worrying that too many departures weaken domestic competition. But the consensus is shifting: development is only meaningful if players get opportunities to grow beyond local borders.
The Future Of Another Rising Star: Relebohile Mofokeng
Nkota isn’t the only youngster Riveiro nurtured. Relebohile Mofokeng, long expected to attract foreign interest, has battled injuries this season. Yet Riveiro believes the attacker will rediscover his rhythm.
He described Mofokeng as mature, grounded and capable of bouncing back from any dip in form. With Pirates fans anxious to see him performing consistently again, Riveiro’s backing comes as reassurance during a challenging period for the youngster.
“Ups and downs are normal in a football career,” he said. “Rele made it look easy, and I’m sure he will return to his best for Pirates and Bafana.”
A Bigger Picture For South African Football
Nkota’s story reflects a growing trend: young South African players are attracting serious interest abroad earlier in their careers. This shift mirrors global football patterns, where leagues outside Europe offer competitive financial packages and professional environments.
For South African clubs, selling talent can be both a financial boost and a sign of trust in development programmes. For the players, it’s an opportunity to test themselves on bigger stages.
And for fans, it’s a reminder that the PSL is producing players who can compete anywhere in the world.
Jose Riveiro’s stance might feel counterintuitive, but it’s rooted in a long-term vision. South African football isn’t losing talent; it’s exporting excellence.
If anything, Nkota’s journey is proof that the next star is already waiting in the wings.
Source: Goal ZA
Featured Image Source: iDiski Times on X
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