Pirates coach speaks on Rele Mofokeng’s MLS transfer talk

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has addressed the persistent transfer speculation surrounding youngster Relebohile Mofokeng.

The talented winger has recently been linked with a move to Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States, adding to a long list of international clubs vying for his signature.

And despite a slow start to the new season, Relebohile Mofokeng remains a highly sought-after talent. He has been a key figure for the Buccaneers since his promotion in the 2022/23 season, becoming a fan favourite and a two-time winner of the PSL Young Player of the Season award. His impressive record of 18 goals and 22 assists in over 90 appearances for the club highlights his immense impact.

The latest reports suggest that MSL side Minnesota United has tabled an offer, coming after Pirates reportedly rejected a R31 million bid from Saudi club Al-Ettifaq earlier in the transfer window.

Speaking after the Soweto giants’ first win in the new 2025/26 season in the Betway Premiership against Stellenbosch FC on Wednesday night, Ouaddou stated he hopes to keep Mofokeng at the club.

“I’m sorry about that question [of Mofokeng], today [Wednesday] I was only focused on the game of Stellenbosch, I didn’t have time to look or read in the media,” Ouaddou said about the reported bid from Minnesota.

Meanwhile, Ouaddou also hinted at a tactical shift for Mofokeng, who played as a central playmaker versus Stellies, a role usually occupied by Patrick Maswanganyi.

The coach praised the young player’s versatility and technical skill. “I cannot say that I see him in future in that position [10],” added the Moroccan tactician.

“As a coach, you have to analyse the profile of the players that you have, analyse the connection between them, what can work, what cannot work…but he can still play wide.  He’s a profile of a player that we need to give freedom.

“Very technically intelligent, clever, you cannot limit him. He needs freedom.”