Mbokazi’s injury setback will make him stronger, says former coach Mnguni

Wonder Mnguni, the coach who discovered Mbekezeli Mbokazi at Langalibalele Sports Academy, has urged the defender to remain patient and trust his recovery after an injury that could keep him out for the rest of the year.

Mbokazi’s career reached a high point when he represented Bafana Bafana at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. South Africa progressed to the knockout stages for the first time in their history, with the centre-back playing a prominent role in the team’s campaign.

The former Orlando Pirates defender had reportedly attracted interest from a number of major European clubs both before and after his return to Chicago Fire. However, his progress has now been interrupted by a thigh injury suffered after he came back from the World Cup.

The injury is understood to be a tear that may require surgery, raising the possibility that the Hluhluwe-born player will not play again until next year.

Mnguni, who is also the founder, director and chairman of Langalibalele Sports Academy, said he was saddened to hear the latest news but believed the setback could ultimately benefit his former protege.

“It was very painful to hear that he could be out for the rest of the year but what I can say is that football is like that,” Mnguni told KickOff in an exclusive interview.

“Sometimes you get injured and I would say it’s a plan from God, because I’m a Christian and I believe a lot in God. It would make him stronger and (the time off) it’s for him to see what is happening in the world,

Mnguni said Mbokazi should not rush his return and should use the recovery period to prepare himself for the next stage of his career.

“He must take it easy and wait for his time, because he will get his time. And he must not be afraid, this talent is from God, it’s not a talent that just comes from anywhere, it’s a God-given talent,” Mnguni said.

The coach believes the qualities that have helped Mbokazi rise through domestic football, earn international recognition and attract attention from overseas clubs will remain with him despite the injury.

“It will always be his talent, so he must wait for the injury to heal and we trust God he will recover and he will go back to the field and do wonders,” Mnguni added.

Mbokazi’s immediate focus is expected to be on recovering from the thigh tear and waiting for the right time to return to action. Mnguni’s message comes after a period in which the defender’s reputation grew significantly, following his performances for Bafana Bafana on football’s biggest stage and the reported interest from major European clubs.

For now, the former Orlando Pirates centre-back faces an extended spell on the sidelines, with surgery potentially required and his return date still uncertain.