Former Orlando Pirates defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi addressed the backlash following his unexpected transfer to Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire. The 20-year-old’s move, announced in December 2025, came just days after he led the Pirates to a triumphant victory in the Carling Knockout Cup final against Marumo Gallants.
Having successfully broken into the Pirates’ first team and earned a call-up to Hugo Broos’ Bafana Bafana as a teenager, many fans and pundits anticipated that Mbokazi would take the next step in his career by moving to a European club. His decision to sign with Chicago Fire instead surprised many, leading to criticism and speculation about his ambitions and the potential impact on his development.
In response, Mbokazi emphasized his excitement for the new opportunity in the MLS, stating that he is eager to grow as a player in a competitive league and showcase his talents on an international platform.
The Backlash
Media pundits and fans questioned the move, but it was national team coach Hugo Broos who delivered the harshest assessment. Broos suggested that Mbokazi’s transfer had inflated his ego, calling the decision “ill-advised” and dismissing Chicago Fire as “not even a Cup team.” Those remarks intensified the debate around the young defender’s career path.
Mbokazi’s Response
Speaking to the South African Football Journalists’ Association (SAFJA), Mbokazi defended his choice:
“It becomes difficult when you hear how people speak where I come from. But people must understand it’s not easy to immediately reach the highest level. I’m still young, I’m growing, and everything will happen when the time is right.”
He emphasized patience and long-term growth over rushing into “big moves” simply to satisfy public opinion:
“The level I want to reach, I know I’ll get there. Age is on my side, so I won’t rush. Where I am now, I feel good. I’m learning, I’m growing, and I’m happy to start here. When the time comes to move higher, I’ll go.”
Mbokazi concluded by expressing gratitude for the opportunity, framing his MLS stint as a stepping stone toward greater ambitions.
Major League DJz Announces North American Tour For October
Burna Boy Supported Major League DJz At the Balcony Mix Africa, London
Bank Secures R6.5M Judgment Against Zuma For Nkandla Upgrades
Scandal: Winnie lives her worst nightmare
Salah Returns for Final Etihad Showdown
Fernandes Secures Sixth EPL Player of the Month Award
The day Casemiro Finally Says Goodbye to Manchester United
Mbokazi Screamer Sparks EPL Interest