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Orlando Pirates FC has confirmed the departure of defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi who will be joining Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire following an agreement reached.
Mbokazi will play his final game for Orlando Pirates against Marumo Gallants in the Carling Cup before making his move to MLS side Chicago Fire, where he’s set to wear the No. 4 shirt.
In a statement released, the Buccaneers revealed that the 20-year-old completed a successful medical and finalised personal terms with the Men in Red.
This happened during his recent trip to the United States, paving the way for a move of a lifetime for the Bafana Bafana international.
Mbokazi’s growth has been nothing short of meteoric, the Club stated.
“In his debut year as a professional (5 March 2025), he has already lifted his first piece of silverware with the Mighty Buccaneers and, on the international front, earned a call-up to the senior national team.
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“Such has been his impact that he is widely expected to be part of the squad heading to the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Mbokazi to remain at Bucs until final official fixture
“Following positive discussions between the management of both Clubs, it has been agreed that Mbokazi will remain with Orlando Pirates until the final official fixture of 2025.
“He will then embark on a new chapter of his football journey across the Atlantic, joining Chicago Fire as the next step in what promises to be an exceptional career,” the statement read.
Chicago Fire said Mbokazi will occupy a U-22 initiative slot and an international roster position, and his contract will run through 2029, with a Club option for the 2029/30 season.
“We are excited to welcome Mbekezeli to the Club as we further strengthen our back line,” said Chicago Fire FC Director of Football and Head Coach Gregg Berhalter.
“In his young career, he has already shown high potential and proven himself to be a strong leader and competitor on the international level. We expect immediate impact and room to grow in future.”
Expressing his joy about the move to a new team, TLB (as Mbokazi is affectionately known) said he is excited to join this lovely Club and that he trust that everything will go well.
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