Orlando Pirates Lose Highly Rated Defender to MLS Club

South African giants Orlando Pirates have lost one of the brightest prospects in South Africa following the signing of defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi by MLS side Chicago Fire.

Mbokazi has become one of the most valuable players in South Africa despite having just 38 senior appearances since his promotion to the first team in Match 2025.

So good is the defender that at 20, he is already one of the captains at Pirates and has become one of the undroppable players at both his club and the national team Bafana Bafana.

PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Google News, Stay informed with Latest Sport News

His immense talents have not taken long to be noticed with Chicago luring him last month when he traveled to the United States to complete the transfer which has now been confirmed.

“Chicago Fire FC today announced that the Club has acquired defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi from Orlando Pirates of South Africa’s Betway Premiership,” Chicago said via a club statement.

“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. Per Club and MLS Policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.”

The club’s head coach Gregg Berhalter, who also serves as the director of football, was thrilled by the signing of the Pirates ace.

“We are excited to welcome Mbekezeli to the Club as we further strengthen our back line,” said 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.”

Even though the transfer fee has not been disclosed, reports in South Africa say the defender has been signed for $3 million which is a massive profit for Pirates as the player came through their youth ranks.

Mbokazi will link up with his new club in January after the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations where he will play a key role for Bafana Bafana in Morocco.