Orlando Pirates legend Lebohang Mokoena has urged Mohau Nkota to consider returning to the Buccaneers next season as he looks to revive his career.
Reports suggest the Al-Ettifaq winger has been valued at €3 million (approximately R63 million) ahead of the upcoming transfer window, with the Saudi outfit reportedly open to offers.
Nkota (21) secured a move to Al-Ettifaq in July last year after an impressive breakthrough campaign with Pirates.
The winger’s rise at the Soweto giants was rapid. After standing out in the club’s DDC (DStv Diski Challenge) side, Nkota was promoted to the senior team during the 2024/25 season, where he quickly caught the eye with his attacking displays.
The young attacker, however, has struggled to establish himself in the Middle East, prompting “Cheeseboy” to suggest a return to the PSL could help him rediscover his form.
Cheeseboy wants to see Nkota back in Pirates colours
Speaking on Soccer Beat, Mokoena said modern football places heavy emphasis on player statistics.
“These days football works around stats, and if your numbers are not looking good, I think the only option Nkota might have right now is to come back to the country, return to Orlando Pirates and try to rebuild himself again,” said Mokoena.
The former Pirates star added that Nkota should use the experience abroad as motivation to improve his game.
“Work on the things that need improvement. Of course, you receive an assessment report from your team when you leave, understanding why you were not making the team or performing at that level,” Mokoena added.
Cheeseboy said Nkota’s return to Pirates will help him grow and establish himself at Bafana Bafana.
“Those are the aspects he needs to come back home and work on. Establish yourself in the Bafana Bafana team, become a regular, and for sure other doors will open because you already have a profile.”