Orlando Pirates Set to Lose Mbokazi to MLS Side Chicago Fire

Orlando Pirates are once again preparing to bid farewell to another highly promising youngster, with reports in South Africa suggesting that defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi is finalising a move to Major League Soccer outfit Chicago Fire. The timing could not be more delicate for Pirates, who are entering a decisive phase of their season.

In recent years, the Buccaneers have turned into a reliable conveyor belt of talent. The likes of Mohau Nkota, who made a name for himself last season before securing a move to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ettifaq, and Relebohile Mofokeng, who remains consistently linked with European interest, reflect the club’s growing reputation for developing quality young players.

Mbokazi, however, may be one of the most impressive prospects to emerge from the Soweto giants in recent memory. Despite making his senior debut only in March, the 20-year-old has already cemented his place for both Pirates and Bafana Bafana. His reading of the game, calmness under pressure, and fearless approach have made him a central figure in defence, to the point where he now captains the Buccaneers on occasion.

Attackers have found little joy against him, while his teammates have come to trust his consistency and timing at the back. His rise has been meteoric—just nine months of senior football have turned him into one of the country’s most indispensable young defenders.

Chicago Fire Move On the Horizon

According to several South African outlets, Chicago Fire are ready to pay around $3 million to secure his services. Mbokazi is believed to be already in the United States as talks enter the final stages. If the move is completed as reported, he may have already played his final match for Pirates.

This would rule him out of the club’s remaining fixtures before the South African league pauses for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Mbokazi is expected to be a key figure in Hugo Broos’ AFCON squad, and he could travel to Morocco as a Chicago Fire player.

Chicago have already bowed out of the MLS playoff race, meaning their attention has shifted to early preparations for the 2026 season, which kicks off in February. Bringing in Mbokazi now gives them ample time to integrate him into their preseason plans.

A Growing South African Presence in the MLS

Should the transfer be finalised, Mbokazi would become the third South African player in Major League Soccer, joining Bongokuhle Hlongwane (Minnesota United) and Olwethu Makhanya (Philadelphia Union). His arrival would continue the growing trend of South African talent finding new opportunities in the United States.

For Pirates, it is another reminder of how quickly their young stars are attracting international attention. For Mbokazi, it is the beginning of a new challenge—one that could elevate his career even further as he prepares for both AFCON and a new chapter abroad.