Orlando Pirates supporters have been left emotional after Bafana Bafana starlet Relebohile Mofokeng penned a heartfelt six-page farewell letter to the club and its loyal supporters, famously known as “The Ghost.”
The 21-year-old Sharpeville-born attacker recently completed his dream move to Belgian Pro League side Royale Union Saint-Gilloise (Union SG). After reporting for pre-season training in Brussels, Mofokeng took to Instagram to share a touching tribute reflecting on his journey, from the Orlando Pirates development structures to becoming one of South Africa’s brightest football talents.
“I Arrived As Rele, I Leave As Relebohile Mofokeng”
Mofokeng’s rise at Orlando Pirates has been nothing short of remarkable. From making his senior debut as a promising teenager in May 2023, the young attacker quickly became a key figure for the Buccaneers and a fan favourite.
Reflecting on his time at the club, Mofokeng expressed his gratitude for the role Pirates played in shaping both his football career and personal growth.
“I write this message with a heart full of gratitude, pride, and emotion as I bid farewell to Orlando Pirates Football Club. Representing this great institution has been one of the greatest honours of my life.”
“I arrived at Orlando Pirates as Rele, I leave as Relebohile Mofokeng. Being part of this team has not only made me a better player, but a better person also.”
The young star also thanked Orlando Pirates chairman Dr Irvin Khoza, the board, technical team, teammates, and the many staff members who worked behind the scenes to support his development.
A Special Tribute To “The Ghost”
While Mofokeng acknowledged everyone who contributed to his journey, he reserved a special message for the Orlando Pirates supporters who stood behind him throughout his rise.
“And most importantly, to the Orlando Pirates supporters, The Ghost, thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
“Your passion, loyalty, and unwavering support have inspired me every time I stepped onto the pitch. Through the highs and the challenges, you stood by us, and I will forever be grateful for the love you have shown me.”
“Wearing this badge in front of you was a privilege I will never take for granted.”
For many Pirates supporters, Mofokeng’s connection with the club and its fans became one of the defining stories of his breakthrough years.
Leaving As A Champion
Although his departure marks the end of a special chapter for the Buccaneers, Mofokeng leaves the club as a champion.
The young playmaker had previously attracted interest from overseas clubs, but Orlando Pirates revealed that he made a commitment to chairman Dr Irvin Khoza to remain at the club and help deliver major silverware.
He fulfilled that promise in memorable fashion, playing a crucial role in Pirates’ historic treble-winning campaign.
Mofokeng finished the season with an impressive contribution of 10 goals and 8 assists, helping the Buccaneers secure the Betway Premiership title on the final day of the campaign.
His outstanding performances also earned him a place in Hugo Broos’ Bafana Bafana squad, where he represented South Africa on the biggest stage.
A New Chapter In Belgium
After completing his international commitments, Mofokeng travelled directly to Belgium to complete his medical examinations and finalise his move to Union SG.
The Belgian club has built a strong reputation for identifying and developing young talent from around the world, making it an ideal destination for the talented attacker as he begins his European adventure.
Mofokeng is now settling into life in Brussels as Union SG prepares for the new season. He is expected to make his competitive debut on 31 July 2026 in the Belgian Super Cup clash against Club Brugge.
For Orlando Pirates and South African football supporters, seeing “iPresident Yama2k” take the next step in his career brings a mixture of pride and emotion.
While his presence will be missed on South African pitches, his final message to the Buccaneers faithful offered a fitting farewell:
“This is not goodbye, but rather A THANK YOU for an unforgettable journey.”
Mofokeng’s journey with Orlando Pirates may have reached its conclusion, but the memories he created at the club will remain with The Ghost for years to come.
