Mbekezeli Mbokazi has improved our defense – Chicago Fire FC president of business operations Dave Baldwin

Chicago Fire FC’s defence is set for a boost with the arrival of 20-year-old centre-back Mbekezeli Mbokazi, according to the club’s president of business operations, Dave Baldwin.

Mbokazi, who recently joined from Orlando Pirates, is expected to make his Major League Soccer debut this weekend as Chicago Fire kick off their 2026 season against Houston Dynamo early Sunday morning.

Manager Gregg Berhalter has already highlighted Mbokazi as a key figure in his plans for the season, placing significant expectations on the young defender.

Baldwin echoed that sentiment in a recent appearance on the Mully & Haugh Show, praising the South African’s impact on the squad.

“We added a 20-year-old defender from South Africa named Mbokazi, who will most likely start for the World Cup team for South Africa.

“So we have vastly improved the defence,” he added.

Mbokazi joins a growing South African presence in MLS, which includes fellow Chicago Fire signing Puso Dithejane, Philadelphia Union coach Bradley Carnell, and defender Olwethu Makhanya.