South Africa centre-back Mbekezeli Mbokazi returns to Chicago Fire training after injury setback

Mbekezeli Mbokazi has returned to the Chicago Fire training grounds after weeks on the sidelines, providing a major boost to the Major League Soccer side and Bafana Bafana.

The South African centre-back had been ruled out after suffering a left thigh tear following his return from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The injury was serious enough to require surgery in Finland, with initial expectations suggesting Mbokazi would not play again this year.

However, Chicago Fire head coach Gregg Berhalter later walked back those fears, admitting he may have been too quick to rule the defender out for the remainder of 2026.

Mbokazi back in training

Those concerns have now eased further, with Chicago Fire confirming on Friday that Mbokazi has returned to the club’s training facility alongside several other players who had also been recovering from injuries.

While his return to the training grounds does not necessarily mean he is immediately ready for competitive action, his presence represents an encouraging step in his rehabilitation.

Mbokazi’s recovery comes at an important stage of Chicago Fire’s campaign, with the club pushing for a strong finish to the season.

The South African defender has emerged as an important part of the team since making the move to the MLS, and his return could strengthen a squad preparing for a decisive run-in.

Dithejane firing for Chicago

Mbokazi’s comeback also coincides with an impressive spell for fellow South African Puso Dithejane, who has been in fine form for Chicago Fire.

The combination of Mbokazi’s defensive qualities and Dithejane’s attacking contribution could prove crucial as Chicago Fire target a strong finish to the campaign.

With seven matches remaining, Chicago Fire sit third in the Eastern Conference on 37 points, five behind Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami, who have played one additional game.

The club will therefore hope Mbokazi can complete his rehabilitation quickly and return to the squad as the battle for a favourable position intensifies.

Bafana boost ahead of AFCON qualifiers

Mbokazi’s progress will also be closely monitored in South Africa, with his return providing a timely boost for Bafana Bafana.

The centre-back’s availability could prove valuable as South Africa prepare for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

After fears that the injury could keep him out for the remainder of the year, Mbokazi’s return to training offers renewed optimism that he could once again be available for national-team duty.