South African rising star Mohau Nkota has officially linked up with his new club Al-Ettifaq FC, joining the Saudi Pro League outfit for their pre-season tour currently underway in Portugal.
Nkota, who made the move from Orlando Pirates in July, was spotted in full training gear alongside his new teammates for the first time this week. The 21-year-old winger is expected to wear the number 16 jersey as he begins a new chapter in his career abroad.
His arrival in Portugal marks the beginning of what could be a breakout journey for the young talent. Al-Ettifaq, home to international stars such as Georginio Wijnaldum, wasted no time integrating Nkota into the squad, with images already surfacing showing him in action on the training ground.
Despite the swift transition from the PSL to Saudi football, Nkota appears to be taking the move in stride.
The former Pirates winger will be looking to impress head coach Saad Al-Shehri during the club’s pre-season matches, which include friendlies against Portimonense (22 July), Farense (29 July), Al-Jazira (3 August), and a double header against Cádiz Mirandilla and Cádiz FC on 6 August.
Nkota’s transfer came as a surprise to many back in South Africa, having only spent one full season with the Soweto giants. But the young star’s ambition and energy seem to be a perfect fit for a club eager to challenge in the highly competitive Saudi Pro League.
With the pre-season now in full swing, all eyes will be on Nkota to see how quickly he can adapt to life in Saudi football and whether he can make an immediate impact ahead of the new season.
