Benson Mhlongo makes stern statements for Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Relebohile Mofokeng | OneFootball

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In a heartfelt plea for the protection of young talent, former Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates stalwart Benson Mhlongo has raised his voice to shield two of the Buccaneers' most promising stars. He emphasized that rising academy graduates Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Relebohile Mofokeng require careful guidance to navigate the pitfalls of sudden fame.

Mbokazi, a commanding defender promoted just this January, has already been entrusted with the captain’s armband this season—a testament to his rapid rise and growing influence. Meanwhile, Mofokeng has become instrumental in the club’s recent domestic cup triumphs and is already turning heads on the international stage, both with international clubs and the senior national team during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

What did Benson Mhlongo say?

In a candid conversation featured in edition 219 of iDiski Times with senior writer Matshelane Mamabolo, Mhlongo highlighted the off-field dangers that often accompany early success. “The team has got complicated players,” he noted. “You need someone to take care of Mofokeng and Mbokazi. As much as they are coming up, you need someone to take care of them.”

He painted a vivid picture of the temptations that await: “A lot of scammers will come to their doorsteps with ladies and invitations to nightclubs where everything is for free. That’s what happens. You get things for free and you get tempted to enjoy the outside life.”

Mhlongo stressed that the solution lies within the club itself. He believes a senior teammate—someone respected and nurturing—must step into a mentoring role to help these young talents stay focused. “If you have someone within – as a teammate – who has got capabilities of holding and nurturing these boys,” he explained, “they’ll be afraid to do those things.”

His message is clear: without this guidance, raw talent risks being derailed by distraction. With it, these stars can truly shine.