Pirates confirm Mbokazi MLS deal

By Benjamin Nyirenda

Orlando Pirates have officially confirmed the transfer of highly-rated defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi to Major League Soccer outfit Chicago Fire, bringing to an end weeks of speculation surrounding the 20-year-old’s future.

In a statement released by the club, the Buccaneers confirmed that an agreement has been reached with the Men in Red after Mbokazi completed a successful medical and finalised personal terms during his recent trip to the United States, paving the way for what is set to become the biggest move of his young career.

The deal marks a remarkable rise for the Bafana Bafana international, whose professional breakthrough only began earlier this year. Since making his debut on 5 March 2025, Mbokazi has enjoyed a meteoric ascent, quickly establishing himself as one of Pirates’ most promising talents.

He has already secured his first piece of silverware with the Soweto giants and, on the international stage, earned a senior national team call-up, underlining just how quickly he has captured attention both locally and abroad.

Mbekezeli Mbokazi of Orlando Pirates celebrates goal during the 2025 Carling Knockout Cup Last 16 match between Orlando Pirates and Siwelele FC at Orlando Stadium

Such has been Mbokazi’s impact that he is widely expected to be included in Hugo Broos’ squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, with the move to the United States expected to further enhance his development at the international level.

Following constructive engagements between the two clubs’ management teams, it has also been agreed that Mbokazi will remain at Pirates for the remainder of 2025.

He will continue to be available for selection until the club’s final official fixture of the year before completing his switch to Chicago Fire.

The arrangement ensures that the Buccaneers retain the services of one of their standout young performers during a critical phase of their domestic campaign, while allowing the defender to fulfil his commitments in South Africa.

Mbokazi will then take the next step of his football journey across the Atlantic, joining Chicago Fire in what many see as the beginning of a potentially exceptional international career.