Fresh from a narrow 1–0 victory over CS Constantine, Rulani Mokwena has openly acknowledged that MC Alger have explored the possibility of signing Orlando Pirates prodigy Relebohile Mofokeng.
Speaking candidly to journalists after the match, the former Mamelodi Sundowns head coach confirmed that the teenage winger is a player he would welcome at the Algerian giants, stressing that the interest is genuine and shared.
“As an example, I know the fans want Relebohile Mofokeng. I know this, and believe me, I want Mofokeng as well,” Mokwena said. He went on to explain that he has a personal understanding of the player’s mindset, having previously engaged him on broader issues within South African football.
However, Mokwena was quick to temper expectations, making it clear that the stumbling block is not MC Alger’s willingness or financial muscle. Instead, he pointed to the player’s long-term ambitions as the decisive factor.
“It is not a transfer that fails from a financial perspective,” Mokwena explained. “The player has had many offers and has already set his sights on moving to Europe.”
The coach used the example to underline MC Alger’s renewed ambition under his leadership, rather than to fuel speculation of an imminent deal. He stressed that the club’s hierarchy has shown a readiness to pursue top African talent, even if circumstances ultimately rule out a move.
“This is something I can speak about to show the ambition of the club,” he added. “The possibility was explored, but the player has no ambition to play in Africa at this stage. That does not reflect a lack of ambition from the president or the club.”
Mokwena’s remarks offer a revealing insight into MC Alger’s transfer strategy as they push for domestic dominance — sitting top of Ligue 1 with just one defeat in 14 matches — while also highlighting a broader reality in African football. Increasingly, the continent’s most exciting young talents view Europe as the primary destination, often bypassing even the biggest clubs on African soil.