Orlando Pirates youngster seals Saudi Pro League Move

Orlando Pirates have confirmed that an agreement has been reached for the permanent transfer of promising winger Mohau Nkota to Ettifaq Club in the Saudi Pro League.

This surprising announcement comes as the Buccaneers are currently in Spain for their pre-season camp under new coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.

The move for the DStv Diski Challenge product is contingent upon the 20-year-old agreeing to personal terms and successfully passing a medical examination. Nkota, currently with the Sea Robbers in Europe, was promoted to the senior side last season by former coach Jose Riveiro.

In his remarkable debut professional campaign, he made 39 appearances, contributing seven goals and five assists.

“Orlando Pirates Football Club can confirm that an agreement has been reached for the permanent transfer of Mohau Nkota to Ettifaq Club in the Saudi Pro League,” the club stated on Sunday. “The move is subject to the 20-year-old agreeing to personal terms and passing a medical.”

The club highlighted Nkota’s immediate impact: “Nkota’s departure comes after a standout debut season in the Buccaneers’ senior squad, where he featured in 39 official matches and registered 12 goal contributions.”

Promoted from the DStv Diski Challenge side at the start of the 2024/25 campaign, the Kimberley-born attacker quickly made his mark. He made his debut on October 19, 2024, in the Carling Black Label Cup against Magesi FC, entering the game at halftime for Monnapule Saleng. From that moment, he became a regular under Riveiro.

His breakthrough season included two impressive braces: one against AmaZulu in a domestic competition and another on the continental stage against Algerian giants CR Belouizdad in the CAF Champions League. His goal against Belouizdad was widely celebrated as one of the best strikes of the 2024/25 TotalEnergies CAF Champions League campaign.

“Everyone at Orlando Pirates wishes Mohau Nkota the very best as he begins this exciting new chapter in his career. May he continue to soar and carry the Buccaneers’ spirit with pride – because remember: Once and Always!” the club concluded.