Bafana player backs Rele’s rapid adaptation and humility in Belgium

BAFANA Bafana forward Shandre Campbell has praised Relebohile Mofokeng’s quick rise in Belgium, calling him a special talent with a big future.

Campbell said Mofokeng’s progress in Europe should inspire other young South African footballers, especially those in the national Under-23 team who look up to the former Orlando Pirates star.

Campbell and Mofokeng build careers in Belgium

Mofokeng, who’s also known as Rele, joined Belgian champions Royale Union Saint-Gilloise from Pirates in July 2026 after shining in the Betway Premiership and for Bafana.

Campbell is also building his career in Belgium after moving from Club Brugge to KV Kortrijk in July.

The 21-year-old signed a four-year deal with Kortrijk after developing at Club NXT and making appearances for Club Brugge’s senior team.

Speaking about Mofokeng’s progress, Campbell said the attacking midfielder had quickly settled into European football.

He’s a really talented player. He’s one of those players you know is going to be special, and he has adapted quickly in Europe. He’s doing wonderfully.

—   Campbell said.

Campbell backs Mofokeng for Player of the Month

Campbell also backed Mofokeng to keep earning recognition for his performances and said he hoped his countryman would win the club’s Player of the Month award.

“He’s going to win Player of the Month. I hope he does. He’s a talented player. He’s getting goals and assists, but most importantly, he’s remaining humble, which is what’s leading to his success,” he said.

Campbell said Mofokeng’s journey was only beginning and that he believed the ex-Bucs star could become one of Mzansi’s biggest football stars.

He stated that Mofokeng’s move from Mzansi to Europe had already motivated other young players.

Mofokeng inspires South Africa’s Under-23 players

I feel like he’s just going to grow bigger and bigger and become a big South African player. A lot of us here in the Under-23 team look up to him because we see where he is and how he got there.

“I think he’s doing wonderfully, and he’s going to keep prospering in Europe,” Campbell added.

With both youngsters now chasing their dreams in Belgium, South African football fans will be watching closely as they work to make their mark in Europe.