South Africa star Mbekezeli Mbokazi returns to Chicago Fire training after injury recovery

South Africa international Mbekezeli Mbokazi has handed Chicago Fire a major boost after returning to training following injury recovery.

The rock-solid defender has been out of action since July after suffering a torn thigh, with initial concerns suggesting that the injury could keep him out for the remainder of the year.

However, Mbokazi has made encouraging progress in his recovery and has now resumed training with his Chicago Fire teammates, raising hopes that he could return to competitive action before the end of the campaign.

The Major League Soccer club confirmed the defender’s return through its official social media platforms, sharing images from a recent training session.

“Some new and some familiar faces out at training,” the club wrote.

Mbokazi’s return will come as welcome news for Chicago Fire head coach Gregg Berhalter, who will be hoping to have the Bafana Bafana defender available as the team enters a crucial stage of the season.

The defender’s prolonged absence had been a concern for both club and country, particularly after fears emerged that the severity of his thigh injury could rule him out for the rest of 2026.

While it remains unclear when Mbokazi will be ready to make his competitive return, his presence on the training pitch represents a significant step in his recovery.

Chicago Fire will now monitor his fitness closely as he works his way back to full match sharpness, with Berhalter expected to manage his return carefully to avoid any further setbacks.