Appollis, who was part of the Bafana squad that returned with a bronze medal from the 2023 African Cup of Nations earlier this year, has been the subject of interest of late, particularly from Tunisian giant Esperance as well as Kaizer Chiefs.

But Mohafe says he’s not ready to lose Appollis, and he’s relayed that message to the club’s management.

"Appollis, yes, I hear there are teams that are looking for his signature, but as a coach, I cannot lose someone who is so influential to our team," said Mohafe.

"So I just spoke to the management, and I hope they heard me when I said, 'No, I need to keep him. I need that progress and improvement that you are looking for.'

"So we need to [achieve] that with players and people that we trust [like Appollis]."

SABC Sport recently reported that Appollis’ agent was waiting to hear from City on their response to Esperance’s offer as they anticipated the move for the player to play in the CAF Champions League as well as the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

Appollis is also believed to have previously been offered to Chiefs before joining Rise and Shine from Pretoria Callies last season, but Mohafe says they will fight to keep him.

"I don't know what you're talking about when you say the offer is there, but what I know is that they told me teams are knocking, but they didn't tell me the names of the teams," he insisted.

"Hence I'm saying, with the Champions League, I'm not sure of what you're talking about. For me, he can only go when he goes abroad."

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