US EditionFire Acquire South African D Mbekezeli Mbokazi
The 20-year-old South African defender signed a multi-year deal through 2029 to fill a U-22 international roster spot after a strong 2024–25 season, Chicago Fire said.
- On Tuesday, Chicago Fire signed 20-year-old South African centre-back Mbekezeli Mbokazi on a contract through 2029, occupying an under-22 initiative and international roster slot.
- His breakthrough 2024-25 season helped Orlando Pirates finish second, win the MTN8, and reach the CAF Champions League semi-final, while Mbokazi established himself as a key starter for Bafana Bafana.
- After just 38 matches as a professional, the Hluhlulwe-born defender rose from Pirates reserve team signing in 2023 to captain South Africa's U20 and will move after Africa Cup of Nations 2025.
- Chicago said the signing strengthens their back line, a position Gregg Berhalter highlighted, while Orlando Pirates bid Mbokazi farewell as he is expected to be key for Hugo Broos at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
- Mbokazi becomes the third South African in MLS, joining Olwethu Makhanya and Bongokuhle Hlongwane , amid market interest shown by a R35 million offer for Relebohile Mofokeng.
12 Articles
12 Articles
Mbokazi’s American dream raises big Bafana questions
Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s R52 million move to Chicago Fire has stunned SA football, a career-defining leap that could elevate or unsettle the Bafana star. Mbokazi’s rise has been rapid, and now comes its biggest turning point. The 20-year-old Bafana Bafana and Orlando Pirates defender has completed a high-profile move to MLS side Chicago Fire, a transfer worth a reported $3 million and the largest sale in Pirates’ recent history. But while the move of…
From SA to the USA: Mbokazi Set to Ignite MLS Wearing Chicago Fire’s Famous No.4
Newly signed Chicago Fire defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi has officially been handed the No. 4 jersey, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in his football journey as he prepares to compete in Major League Soccer (MLS). The South African centre-back completed his switch to the American outfit this week, immediately joining up with his new teammates as the club finalised his registration. Mbokazi’s move has been met with admiration and pri…
Tough Bafana Defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi Leaves Pirates For US Chicago Fire FC
Johannesburg – United States football club Chicago Fire FC has announced the signing of promising centre back Mbekezeli Mbokazi from Orlando Pirates. The sturdy Bafana Bafana defender from Hluhluwe, South Africa, on Tuesday, 2 December 2025, signed to join the American club on a four-year contract. Mbokazi joins through 2029 with a club option for 2030, taking a U-22 Initiative slot to strengthen the back line for the 2026 MLS season. Coach Greg…
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