Orlando Pirates have confirmed that defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi has joined Major League Soccer outfit Chicago Fire.

Mbokazi was promoted to the senior team in 2024 and made his debut against Chippa United on 5 march 2025.

The 20-year-old has since gone on to make 38 appearances across all competitions, while scoring two goals and registering two assists for the Buccaneers.

The Bafana Bafana defender has since penned a deal with the MLS side which will see his contract run through 2029, with a Club option for the 2029/30 season.

Orlando Pirates have released the following statement on Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s departure, which reads:

Orlando Pirates Football Club can confirm that it has reached an agreement with Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire for the transfer of defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi.

The 20-year-old completed a successful medical and finalised personal terms with the Men in Red 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. 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. 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.

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.