Breaking: Chicago Fire Sign Mbokazi From Pirates
Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire has announced a new signing of Orlando Pirates defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi.
Mbokazi travelled to the United States almost two weeks ago to finalise his switch to the MLS club. Chicago Fire are reportedly prepared to pay a transfer fee of around US$3 million (approximately R52.14 million at today’s exchange rate) should negotiations be successfully concluded.
The 20-year-old has been outstanding since making his PSL debut in March under coach Jose Riveiro and has quickly become one of Pirates’ most reliable performers this season.
He was appointed the club’s vice-captain during the off-season and has worn the armband whenever Nkosinathi Sibisi has been unavailable.
Mbokazi’s rise has also extended to the international stage. He has cemented his place as a Bafana Bafana starter, with coach Hugo Broos praising his rapid development, saying he had “never seen anything like it before.”
The defender played a crucial role in South Africa’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, although he missed the decisive match against Rwanda due to suspension after receiving a red card against Zimbabwe in Durban.
With Bafana Bafana set to compete at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco from 21 December to 18 January, Mbokazi is expected to play a key role after being named in the final squad on Monday.
After AFCON, the national team will turn their attention to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Mbokazi’s move to the US could benefit both him and Bafana, as he adapts early to the environment ahead of the global showpiece.
Mbokazi returned to action for Pirates on Saturday, helping them beat Durban City 2-0 to go top of the Betway Premiership table. He has made 38 appearances for the Buccaneers in all competitions, scoring two goals and providing two assists.
Chicago Fire are currently coached by former USA national team boss Gregg Berhalter, who led the Americans to the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where they were eliminated 3-1 by the Netherlands in the Round of 16.
