Chicago Fire FC has officially signed 20-year-old South African defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi from Orlando Pirates, one of South Africa’s top football clubs in the Betway Premiership. Mbokazi joins the Fire as part of the U-22 initiative and will take up an international roster spot. His contract runs until 2029, with an option for the 2029/30 season.
Welcome to Chicago
“We are excited to welcome Mbekezeli to the Club as we strengthen our defence,” said Chicago Fire FC Director of Football and Head Coach Gregg Berhalter. “He has already shown great potential in his young career and is a proven leader and competitor at the international level. We expect him to make an immediate impact while continuing to grow with the team.”
Impressive career in South Africa
Mbokazi has already played over 35 matches in South Africa’s Betway Premiership and in continental competitions such as the CAF Champions League. He has also featured in domestic tournaments including the MTN 8, Carling Knockout Cup, and Nedbank Cup. In 2025/26, he helped Orlando Pirates defend their MTN 8 title with a 3-0 win over Stellenbosch.
International experience
On the international stage, Mbokazi has represented South Africa at both youth and senior levels. He played in the 2024 COSAFA U-20 Cup, which South Africa won, and qualified for the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations. He made his senior national team debut in May 2025 in a 2-0 victory over Mozambique and was called up for FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Nigeria in September 2025.
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