South African footballer Relebohile Mofokeng has quickly attracted attention in Belgium following his move to Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, with the young attacker making an encouraging start to his European career.
The 21-year-old, who can play as an attacking midfielder or left winger, joined the Belgian Pro League club from Orlando Pirates on 2 July 2026. He has adapted quickly to his new surroundings and has already made a significant contribution to the team.
Mofokeng reportedly moved to Union SG for €3.5 million, approximately R65.3 million. The transfer represented a record fee for a player moving directly from a South African club, exceeding the previous record associated with Percy Tau.
He signed a contract that runs until June 2030, with Union SG having an option to extend the agreement by another year. Transfermarkt listed his market value at €3 million as of its 5 June 2026 update.
Impressive Form at Orlando Pirates
Mofokeng arrived in Belgium after an outstanding final season with Orlando Pirates. He played an important part in the club's domestic treble campaign, scoring 10 goals and providing eight assists in 27 Betway Premiership appearances.
His performances established him as one of the promising young players in South African football and helped attract interest from European clubs.
His transition to Union SG has been equally impressive. During his first competitive outing, he scored the decisive penalty in a shootout victory over Club Brugge, helping Union SG secure the 2026 Belgian Super Cup.
He has continued to make an impact in the Belgian Pro League, where he has already scored three goals and registered one assist in his early appearances.
Mofokeng also made his mark in European competition. On his Uefa Europa League debut, he scored during Union SG's 3-0 away victory over Viktoria Plzen. He subsequently provided an assist in a 2-0 win over Royal Antwerp.
Across competitions, the South African has recorded four goals and one assist in a relatively short period. His performances have also helped him earn regular starting opportunities under coach David Hubert.
Competition for Places at Union SG
Hubert has previously highlighted the depth within his squad and the strong competition among players for starting positions. This makes Mofokeng's rapid adjustment and ability to establish himself in the starting line-up particularly noteworthy.
Following the victory over Plzen, Hubert spoke about the strength available within his squad. He explained that the team had more than 11 players capable of starting and that he was confident in what his squad could produce, even when circumstances required less frequently used players to play full matches.
Hubert also described the team's tactical approach against Plzen, explaining that Union SG intended to press high up the pitch, force mistakes and create problems by constantly moving into available spaces. He said the strategy worked effectively and suggested that the team could have scored even more before half-time.
The coach's comments illustrate the demanding environment at Union SG, where players must compete strongly for opportunities. Mofokeng's ability to secure consecutive starts while contributing goals and assists has therefore been significant.
A Promising Future in Europe
Union SG have enjoyed a strong period of results as they challenge near the top of the Belgian Pro League while also competing in European football.
Mofokeng's ability to operate in several attacking positions has provided Hubert with additional tactical flexibility. His energy, technical ability and finishing have allowed him to make an impact despite the competition within the squad.
The young footballer has previously spoken positively about his decision to join Union SG. When he completed the move, he described playing in Europe as a dream and said he wanted to continue developing while competing for trophies.
His performances since arriving in Belgium indicate that he has made a positive beginning to that journey.
Mofokeng has also been recalled to the Bafana Bafana squad by coach Pitso Mosimane. His ability to adapt to a higher level of competition and continue finding the net has added another dimension to his development as an international player.
At only 21 years old, Mofokeng has already established himself as an important part of Union SG's plans. His quick adjustment to European football, consistent contributions and ability to compete for a starting place suggest that his move from the PSL has opened an important new chapter in his career.
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