Did Mohau Nkota just commit football's biggest sin in a radio interview?

IOL News

2 days ago

Cardinal sin Mohau Nkota, who recently made his international debut for Bafana Bafana, has sealed a move to Saudi Pro League club Al Ettifaq. Photo: Alche Greeff/BackpagePix
Image: Alche Greeff/BackpagePix
Former Orlando Pirates starlet Mohau Nkota may have committed one of football's cardinal sins – speaking too honestly about his future plans – in a recent interview.
Nkota impressed in his debut season with Orlando Pirates. Recently, he completed a move to Saudi Arabian club Al-Ettifaq. There, he will play alongside Gini Wijnaldum and Mousa Dembele.
It's a huge move for the 20-year-old, who not too long ago was running rings around defenders in the DStv Diski Challenge, and who will now face some of the world's best players – Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino, Karim Benzema, and others.
Speaking on Sports Night Amplified, he revealed he was not planning on spending more than three years at the club, something the coach and supporters might not be too happy to hear him say.
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'I know a lot of people might say that it's where most players retire, but for me, starting there is an opportunity,' the youngster said.
'I don't think I'm going to finish my three seasons because I'm going there to work… The money is good, but there's more to it than that. We all want financial security, but my dream is to play in the top leagues.'
The Saudi Pro League has long been labelled a 'retirement league' because it often attracts big-name stars in the twilight of their careers, lured by lucrative contracts and a slower competitive pace compared to Europe's top leagues. However, recent seasons have seen younger talents making the move, aiming to prove themselves on a growing stage and perhaps use the platform as a springboard to Europe.
Nkota, at just 20 years old, could position himself as part of this new wave – provided his performances back up his ambition. While it could be seen as an open secret that players tend to use clubs as stepping stones, it's never a good idea to admit that openly.
Such comments could damage how the club's fans, coaches, and even teammates perceive him. Supporters want to believe a player is fully committed to their cause, while coaches value those motivated to succeed for the club rather than simply using it as a stepping stone. Teammates – especially those who see the team as their pinnacle rather than a pit stop – may also interpret his remarks as arrogant or disrespectful.
Ultimately, Nkota's talent and ambition are undeniable, but in football, perception can be just as important as performance. If he hits the ground running in Saudi Arabia, scores goals, and helps his team win, fans may overlook his comments.
But if results don't go his way, those same words could come back to haunt him. For now, his boots will have to do the talking – because winning hearts off the pitch might prove just as challenging as beating defenders on it.
IOL Sport
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