Chicago Fire coach Gregg Berhalter backs Mbekezeli Mbokazi to excel at club

Chicago Fire FC Director of Football and Head Coach Gregg Berhalter has expressed strong confidence in newly signed Orlando Pirates defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi, believing the young South African has what it takes to make an immediate mark in Major League Soccer.

Mbokazi, a rising talent for both Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana, was officially unveiled on Tuesday after signing a long-term deal running through 2029, with an option for an additional year.

The 20-year-old joins the Fire under the U-22 Initiative and will occupy an international roster slot, reflecting the club’s strategic investment in young, high-upside talent.

Berhalter, speaking through the club’s official website, praised Mbokazi’s mentality and rapid progress on the international stage. He noted that the defender, affectionately nicknamed ‘TLB’, brings leadership qualities and competitiveness far beyond his age.

“We are excited to welcome Mbekezeli to the Club as we further strengthen our back line,” Berhalter said.

He added, “In his young career, he has already shown high potential and proven himself to be a strong leader and competitor on the international level. We expect immediate impact and room to grow in future.”

With Berhalter’s backing and a clear pathway laid out for his development, Mbokazi arrives in Chicago poised to become a key pillar in the club’s defensive rebuild.

The young defender is expected to make the final Bafana Bafana squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.