As reported in November last year, the 20-year-old sealed the move to MLS side Chicago Fire, a four-year deal that includes a one-year option to renew.
Chicago, who finished in eighth position with 53 points in the 2025 MLS season, further confirmed that Mbokazi will take up their U-22 initiative slot and an international roster position, and his contract will run through 2029.
EXPECTATIONS ON MBEKEZELI MBOKAZI
Mbokazi, who signed for the Pirates reserve team in 2023 while playing for Langalibalele Sports Academy in the Engen U19 Knockout tournament, made his professional debut in the final stretch of last season under then-coach Jose Riveiro. Since that 1-0 win over Chippa United on 5 March 2025, he never looked back.
SET TO FACE LIONEL MESSI
The 20-year-old has now joined a league where he will face players like Lionel Messi and Heung-min Son, and Berhalter believes this exposure will prepare him for top-level competition and the World Cup.
“He’s comfortable on the ball, dynamic in tackles,” Berhalter said. “Aggressive in the air even though he’s not the tallest. Able to cover the space behind him. For a 20-year-old, he’s got a lot of potential.
I believe that when you’re playing against players like Messi, Son, and Bouanga, the quality we have in this league, it will prepare you for any league in the world.
We have a very clear way we want to play, and defenders have a lot of the ball and are asked to do a lot of difficult things. I’m confident that’s going to help develop him and prepare him for the World Cup,” Berhalter added.
Also read: Ouaddou on Pirates quality without Mbokazi
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