Chicago Fire coach backtracks on Mbokazi season-ending injury claim

Chicago Fire coach Gregg Berhalter has offered a major boost regarding the fitness of South African defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi.

Mbokazi suffered an injury that was initially considered serious, with Berhalter previously ruling him out of the entire football campaign.

However, the Chicago Fire boss has now admitted that his earlier assessment may have been premature after Mbokazi began making encouraging progress in his rehabilitation programme.

Speaking after Chicago Fire’s 1-1 draw against New York Red Bulls at Sports Illustrated Stadium on Sunday, Berhalter provided a more positive update on the 19-year-old defender’s condition.

“I think the information I have given on Mbokazi that he’s definitely out for this season was premature,” Berhalter said.

Mbokazi is currently undergoing rehabilitation as he works his way back to full fitness. According to Berhalter, the defender has responded positively to the programme and is showing signs that could allow him to return before the conclusion of the campaign.

“He’s in a rehab program at the moment and he is progressing and showing positive signs,” the coach added.

Despite the improved outlook, Berhalter stressed that there is still no definite timetable for Mbokazi’s return.

“There’s no exact time-frame when he’s going to come back, but there’s a possibility it’s before the end of the season.”

The latest update represents a significant change from the initial prognosis and will come as welcome news to both Mbokazi and Chicago Fire supporters.

The young defender has impressed since making the move to Major League Soccer, and his continued development has made him an important part of the club’s plans.

While Berhalter is not prepared to put a specific date on his comeback, the possibility of seeing Mbokazi back on the pitch before the end of the season provides renewed optimism following an injury that initially appeared likely to end his campaign.

For now, the focus remains on ensuring that the South African completes his rehabilitation properly rather than rushing him back into competitive action.

Chicago Fire will therefore continue to monitor his progress closely, with Berhalter leaving the door open for a return if Mbokazi responds well to the next stages of his recovery.