Hugo Broos has backed Relebohile Mofokeng to grow into European football but believes the Orlando Pirates sensation will need patience and hard work after his reported move to Belgium.
The Bafana Bafana coach believes the talented winger is making the right decision by leaving the Betway Premiership, but he warned that the step up in competition will bring new challenges.
Mofokeng enhanced his reputation during the FIFA World Cup, featuring in all three matches for South Africa before reports linked him with a move to Union Saint-Gilloise.
HUGO BROOS EXPECTS TOUGH BELGIAN ADAPTATION
Speaking to SABC Sport, Broos explained that the move will help Mofokeng continue developing but insisted that supporters should not expect an instant impact.
“I think it’s a good thing for him, and he will progress, but we mustn’t expect that he will play from the first day,” Broos said.
The experienced coach believes the biggest adjustment will come physically, with Mofokeng needing time to adapt to the demands of Belgian football.
“I think he will progress, but Rele must be stronger, it’s a very tough competition in Belgium, and in the first five to six months they will work a lot on his physical strength.”
A BIG STEP FOR THE ORLANDO PIRATES STAR
The Bafana Bafana coach believes Mofokeng has the talent required to succeed in Europe, but he must add strength to his game to compete consistently.
“He’s a talented player, and once you have the power you need for such a competition, there will be no problem at all.”
The move represents another important step in the career of the Orlando Pirates academy product, who has quickly become one of South Africa’s most exciting young players.
For Mofokeng, the challenge now is proving himself in a different football environment, while following the path of other South African stars who used Belgium as a stepping stone towards bigger opportunities in Europe.