Ex-Orlando Pirates star Memela believes Bucs wonderkid Mofokeng 'can play for teams like Barcelona or Real Madrid'

The South African football community is united in its admiration for young Relebohile Mofekeng, widely regarded as the most exciting talent in the country right now.

Fans and experts alike are rallying behind the Vaal-born prodigy, hoping he achieves his full potential on the pitch.

The latest to join the chorus of praise is former Orlando Pirates attacker Luvuyo "Amigo" Memela, who has expressed his excitement about Mofekeng's future and the impact he could make in the game.

“For me, I feel like he can play for teams like Barcelona and Real Madrid, he is a player with the ability to play at the highest level. I feel like he can play in top competitions like the Champions League. If I remember well, the last South African we had competing a such a level was Benni McCarthy, ” Memela as reported by Soccer Laduma.

"Then we had guys like Thulani Serero who played against Barcelona when he was still with Ajax (Amsterdam). and even scored. But since then, we haven't had a player competing at such a big stage.

"It would be nice to see one of our own at that stage when watching football, and for me, that boy can get there. It’s good to see the progress he has been making, and I like how the Pirates coach is managing him in terms of how he is using him in the team.”

Mofokeng represents a new generation of South African footballers with the potential to break into elite European clubs like Real Madrid or Barcelona.

His progress could reignite the dream of seeing more South Africans compete at the highest levels, just as Benni McCarthy and Thulani Serero did.

For both local football and young players across the country, his success would be a beacon of inspiration, showing that global recognition is achievable through talent, discipline, and proper development.

Mofokeng’s immediate focus will be continuing his development under the guidance of the Pirates coaching staff, who have been carefully managing his minutes to avoid burnout.

He will need to consistently perform in domestic competitions like the PSL while also preparing for continental challenges with the club.

If he maintains his form, opportunities for overseas trials or transfers may arise, and national team recognition could also be on the horizon.