Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has confirmed that one of his top players landed an opportunity of a lifetime after being handed a trial by EPL side Wolves.
Relebohile Mofokeng is said to have left South Africa on Sunday for a trial with Wolverhampton Wanderers FC, commonly known as Wolves.
Whether the 18-year-old midfielder is trying his luck with the club’s senior team is still unclear.
Mofokeng, according to Riveiro, will miss the Carling Knockout Cup opener against Cape Town Spurs on Friday at Orlando Stadium.
The teenage sensation made his senior team debut on 1 April 2023 against Richards Bay in a 2-0 win. Almost seven months later, the youngster could make a breakthrough into one of the best leagues in the world.
“Rele [Mofokeng] is in the UK. He’s having a trial period with Wolves,” Riveiro told journalists during the Carling Knockout Cup press conference at the PSL offices.
In his maiden season in the topflight, he made two appearances for the Soweto giants. Mofokeng came through the club’s youth structures. Exactly a year ago, he was unstoppable at the Pirates Cup in Johannesburg, where he won an individual accolade.
This season, Riveiro has given the teenager more time on the field, making 11 appearances so far in all competitions. He has even had a taste of CAF Champions League football.
The Spaniard is convinced that despite his age, Mofokeng is ready for the big stage and tips him to make it overseas.
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The Spaniard believes “he’s ready for whatever is coming” despite his age. “He’s in a proper age. Maybe it looks like early – 18 – but not for me.”
He said, “If you follow the current” trends in Europe, players as young as 17, 18, or 19 are making waves. Riveiro challenged South African clubs to “change our vision of the youngsters”.
“When you’re ready, you’re ready. Even if you’re 18 or 28, you’re ready you’re ready. We know the type of talent Rele is, and everything is in his hands to use this opportunity.”