Orlando Pirates Too Dependent on Mbule and Mofokeng, Says Junior Khanye
Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye has raised concerns over Orlando Pirates’ heavy reliance on individual players. He emphasised that Pirates relied on Relebohile Mofokeng and Sipho Mbule to secure results this season.
The Buccaneers endured a difficult start to their Betway Premiership campaign, suffering back-to-back defeats. However, they have since bounced back with three straight league victories. They also booked their place in the MTN8 final after knocking out defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns.
Despite this resurgence, Khanye insists that Pirates’ title credentials remain questionable unless they show more consistency and reduce their dependence on individual brilliance.
“Pirates rely too much on Mofokeng’s influence”
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Khanye argued that the Soweto giants’ system is built around certain players delivering game-changing moments.
“Can Pirates win the league? At Pirates you need specific players to step up. They rely on individual brilliance, you need Rele (Mofokeng) to do something special,” Khanye said.
“Once you pocket Rele or Mbule, I don’t think Pirates can rise. If three or four of those key players don’t show up, Pirates struggle. It’s more of an individual team than a collective.”
Khanye also drew comparisons with the past, recalling how the Buccaneers historically depended on standout talents such as the late Gift Leremi, Lebohang “Cheese” Mokoena, Benedict “Tso” Vilakazi, and Joseph “Dukuduku” Makhanya.
Mofokeng’s slow start to the season
Interestingly, Mofokeng has yet to register a goal or assist this season in six appearances, despite being linked with a potential move abroad before the transfer window closed. His influence on the pitch, however, remains central to Pirates’ attacking play.
Khanye concluded that while Pirates have the potential to challenge for the league, their reliance on a handful of individuals could ultimately prove costly if opponents find a way to neutralise them.
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