Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq could reportedly part ways with winger Mohau Nkota in the coming weeks as the club looks to reshape its squad ahead of the new season.
The 21-year-old joined Al-Ettifaq in July last year after completing a blockbuster move from Orlando Pirates.
Nkota made a promising start to life in Saudi Arabia, but his progress was disrupted by inconsistency and injuries, which limited his game time during the second half of the campaign.
The former Pirates star’s situation took a further setback in May when he suffered a serious knee injury during training. The injury required surgery and ultimately ruled him out of contention for South Africa’s 2026 FIFA World Cup squad.
Nkota is yet to return to competitive action, and reports suggest Al-Ettifaq could now look to sell the winger as they prioritise strengthening their midfield and defence.
With the talented attacker having spent close to four months on the sidelines, finding a club willing to make a significant investment in him could prove difficult.
He previously opened up about his disappointment after missing out on the World Cup squad, admitting that the setback was particularly painful.
Nkota unlikely to stay in Saudi“I hardly know where to begin, but it hurts indescribably to have to miss the biggest tournament,” Nkota wrote on social media.
“I did everything I could to be fit for the World Cup. Unfortunately, injuries often strike at the most unfortunate times. I’ll come back stronger, I promise.”
For Nkota, the immediate priority will be returning to full fitness and proving that he can rediscover the form that earned him a move to Saudi Arabia in the first place.
If he returns to fitness in the coming weeks, he can still fight for him place in the team. Al-Ettifaq though, will not blink twice if a team is keen to sign him during the transfer window or even in January.
Where should he go?