Mohau Nkota could be on the move again, with Al-Ettifaq reportedly considering whether to part ways with the former Orlando Pirates winger.
The 21-year-old’s future in Saudi Arabia has come under scrutiny as Al-Ettifaq looks to reshape its squad ahead of the new season.
Nkota joined the Saudi Pro League club from Orlando Pirates in July 2025, making the move after emerging as one of the promising young talents in South African football.
However, his first season in Saudi Arabia has not gone according to plan.
Injury setback hit Nkota hard
After showing flashes of promise, Nkota struggled for consistent game time as injuries and inconsistency disrupted his campaign.
His biggest setback came in May, when he suffered a serious knee injury during training.
The injury required surgery and ultimately ended his hopes of being considered for South Africa’s 2026 FIFA World Cup squad.
Nkota has yet to return to competitive football, leaving his immediate future uncertain as Al-Ettifaq considers changes to its squad.
Al-Ettifaq could listen to offers
Reports suggest the Saudi club could be prepared to sell Nkota as it prioritises reinforcements in other areas of the squad, particularly midfield and defence.
However, his lengthy spell on the sidelines could make a potential transfer complicated.
With Nkota still working his way back to full fitness, prospective clubs may be reluctant to make a major investment before seeing the winger return to competitive action.
For now, the former Pirates star’s priority is clear: get back to full fitness and rediscover the form that earned him a move to Saudi Arabia.
Nkota opens up on World Cup heartbreak
Missing the World Cup was another major blow for the young winger.
Nkota previously expressed his disappointment on social media, saying the injury came at an especially painful moment in his career.
“I hardly know where to begin, but it hurts indescribably to have to miss the biggest tournament.”
He added that he had done everything possible to be fit before the injury intervened.
“I’ll come back stronger, I promise.”
What next for the former Pirates winger?
Nkota’s situation could develop quickly once he is fit again.
A return to action would give him the opportunity to prove his value to Al-Ettifaq — or potentially attract interest from clubs looking for a talented young winger.
The Saudi club could reportedly consider offers during the current transfer window or revisit his situation when the January window opens.
For Nkota, though, the first challenge is getting back on the pitch.
Will Mohau Nkota remain at Al-Ettifaq, or could the former Orlando Pirates star be heading for another move?
