Berhalter Hails Mbokazi’s Potential
Chicago Fire director of football and head coach Gregg Berhalter says he is thrilled to have secured the signature of Orlando Pirates defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi, adding that the club had seen more than enough quality from him despite his relatively recent breakthrough.
The MLS club confirmed that Mbokazi will occupy a U-22 Initiative slot and an international roster position, with his contract running through 2029 and a club option for the 2029/30 season. In line with club and MLS policy, the financial terms were not disclosed.
“We are excited to welcome Mbekezeli to the Club as we further strengthen our back line,” said Berhalter.
“In his young career, he has already shown high potential and proven himself to be a strong leader and competitor at international level. We expect him to make an immediate impact, with plenty of room to grow in the future.”
At just 20 years old, Mbokazi already boasts significant experience at both professional and international levels. He has played more than 35 matches in the Betway Premiership and the CAF Champions League, as well as the MTN8, Carling Knockout Cup, and Nedbank Cup. He won the 2025/26 MTN8 title with Pirates, where they defended their crown with a 3-0 victory over Stellenbosch.
Internationally, Mbokazi has represented South Africa at both U-20 and senior levels. He was part of the squad that won the 2024 COSAFA U-20 Cup, earning qualification for the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations.
He made his senior Bafana Bafana debut in May 2025 in a 2-0 win over Mozambique and was later called up for FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Nigeria during the September 2025 international window.
