Bafana Captain Backs Mofokeng For Union SG Move
Bafana Bafana captain Ronwen Williams believes Relebohile Mofokeng’s move to Belgian Pro League side Union Saint-Gilloise is another significant step forward for South African football and says it will benefit both the player and the national team.
Mofokeng completed a four-year move to Union Saint-Gilloise on Thursday after establishing himself as one of South Africa’s brightest young talents during his time at Orlando Pirates.
The Bafana Bafana winger enjoyed an outstanding spell with the Buccaneers, helping the club win seven trophies, including three MTN8 titles, two Nedbank Cups, the Carling Knockout and the Betway Premiership. His rapid rise also earned him a place in South Africa’s FIFA World Cup squad this year, further highlighting his remarkable development.
Williams believes Mofokeng’s move to Europe is a proud moment for everyone involved with Bafana Bafana and hopes it will inspire more South African players to test themselves at the highest level.
“For Rele, you know, it’s amazing,” Williams said.
“We are all happy and proud. We’ll continue supporting him and, like the coach has mentioned so many times, this is what we need – more exports, with players competing at the highest level. That will help us and can only benefit us as a team.”
The experienced goalkeeper also praised the emergence of South Africa’s exciting young generation, highlighting players such as Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Mohau Nkota, Ime Okon and Mofokeng, among others, who have made their mark in recent years.
Williams believes Bafana Bafana have been on an upward trajectory, with the younger players adding fresh quality to a squad already blessed with experienced leaders.
“I think the team has been on a very positive upward trend. Obviously, the coach (Hugo Broos) had his key players who have always been there and carried the team for a long time,” he added.
“But the players who have emerged in South Africa, all the young guys, are special. There are so many of them who have come through and made a name for themselves.
“We also need to give credit to the coach for trusting them at this high level, at AFCON, and now giving them experience at the World Cup. That can only do wonders for their careers. I wish I had played in a World Cup at 20 years old because I know what that would have done for my career.
“But I’m glad and proud of them. They deserve it because they have worked so hard, and the talent they have is immense.
“For many years we always said our players had talent, but there was nothing to show for it. Now, with these young players and the mentality they have at such a young age, it’s something special. I just wish them all the best.”
