Biography
Who is Aaron Mokoena?
Early life and career
Aaron Mokoena was born on November 25, 1980, in Johannesburg, South Africa. He grew up in Boipatong and began his professional football path by playing for Jomo Cosmos. His early club career included moves to Bayer Leverkusen and Ajax, followed by loan spells at Germinal Beerschot and a transfer to K.R.C. Genk.
On January 4, 2005, Aaron Mokoena moved to the Premier League to join Blackburn Rovers. He made his club debut on January 8, 2005, in an FA Cup match against Cardiff City. Under manager Mark Hughes, he initially played as a holding midfielder in a defensive formation and became a regular starter for the remainder of the season, making 22 appearances in total.
Blackburn Rovers and Portsmouth career
During his time at Blackburn Rovers, Aaron Mokoena scored his first goal for the club against Manchester City in an FA Cup match on March 11, 2007. He scored his second and final goal for Blackburn in February 2009 against Sunderland, which was voted goal of the season. He played his final game for Blackburn on May 24, 2009, against West Bromwich Albion.
On May 24, 2009, Aaron Mokoena joined Portsmouth on a three-year deal. He scored an FA Cup goal against Coventry City and later netted his first league goal in English football against Bristol City on September 28, 2010. He signed a new contract extension in October 2010, making 70 total appearances for Portsmouth before his contract was terminated in July 2012.
International career and coaching
Aaron Mokoena represented South Africa internationally across many tournaments. He played at the 2000 Olympics and captained the national team during the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations, the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup, and the 2010 FIFA World Cup held in his homeland. He made his senior debut against Botswana in February 1999 and became the youngest player to represent South Africa at the senior international level at that time.
After finishing his playing career, Aaron Mokoena transitioned into coaching. He served as a player for Bidvest Wits starting in July 2012 and later took on coaching duties. Today, he works as the assistant coach of Cape Town City, bringing his extensive professional experience to the coaching staff.
Birthday and age
Aaron Mokoena was born on November 25, 1980, which makes Aaron 45 years old today. That birthday falls under the Sagittarius sign. Aaron shares the date with 21 other famous people.
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