Champions League winner helps Nkota settle in Saudi

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Former Orlando Pirates winger Mohau Nkota has opened up on the role Georginio Wijnaldum has played in helping him settle at Al-Ettifaq following his move to the Saudi Pro League.

Nkota, 21, joined the club at the start of the 2025-26 season, stepping into his first experience outside South Africa after leaving Pirates. Adjusting to a new league, environment and culture, the winger turned to senior figures within the squad, with Wijnaldum playing a leading role.

The former Liverpool midfielder, who won both the Premier League and UEFA Champions League under Jurgen Klopp, is now club captain and has taken on responsibility for guiding younger players.

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“When I arrived, I talked to my captain, Gini Wijnaldum,” Nkota said. “He’s the one who advised me about the league and told me how things are going to go during the season.

“He said to me, ‘It’s not going to be easy, so you have to work and fight for your position. You have to always be there. Show up, show the coach that you want to play’.”

Nkota added that Wijnaldum encouraged him to express himself and embrace the challenge of playing abroad.

“He told me I need to show myself, who I am and where I come from, so that people can recognise me in the league,” Nkota said.

“I didn’t know he was the captain at first, but he told me, ‘Don’t worry, be free. Don’t be scared to make mistakes. I’m here. We are here to help you as our new teammate’.”

Nkota has since made a positive start in Saudi Arabia, contributing goals and assists while continuing to adapt. With Wijnaldum’s support, the South African winger is growing into his role at Al-Ettifaq and gaining valuable experience at a higher level.

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Photo: Ettifaq_EN/X

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Dylan Johnson