Former Bafana Bafana and Kaizer Chiefs captain Siphiwe Tshabalala has tipped one of Orlando Pirates’ rising stars to potentially be the Mzansi's greatest export, eclipsing the likes of Benni McCarthy, Steven Pienaar and Lucas Radebe.
Shabba, who is the second most-capped Bafana Bafana player and won multiple trophies with Kaizer Chiefs, believes Mzansi football has found it’s next big star in Relebohile Mofokeng.
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The 19-year-old was on display on the Buccaneers successfully booked their tickets to a second consecutive Nedbank Cup final after defeating Chippa United 3-1 at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Saturday.
It was a 34th appearance for Mofokeng, who has contributed an impressive return of four goals and six assists in the same period.
Speaking exclusively to KickOff at the Nedbank Cup Ya Rona Fan Experience event on Saturday, Shabba explained why he believes Mofokeng could top the likes of Benni McCarthy, Lucas Radebe and Sibusiso Zuma who all enjoyed successful spells abroad.
"Rele (Mofokeng) is one of them," Shabba responded when asked to pick South Africa's best young talent.
"He is young, very talented and I am glad that he is getting game-time in a big team and also he influences the games.
"He has a great, great potential of being the best South African export and there is a future for him in the national team.
Relebohile Mofokeng with a stunning goal for the Sea Robbers ??? Stream #DStvPrem live: https://t.co/TesYUfo62x pic.twitter.com/rQe0c4VRfE
— SuperSport Football ?? (@SSFootball) April 6, 2024
"I would advise players to go abroad. When the opportunity arises, I would advise that. We must also have higher aspirations, South Africa is not the roof.
"There is life in Europe, now there’s also your Saudis, so it’s not only about the career, it should also benefit you financially.
"Playing football is not just for recreational purposes, it’s work and it’s business and therefore it has to reward you.
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Mofokeng very nearly made the switch to Europe when he underwent an assessment with English Premier League side Wolverhampton in October.
However, at only 19, a move abroad is still likely on the cards for the rising star.
