TS Galaxy explore wider MLS partnership after Chicago Fire deal

TS Galaxy chairman Tim Sukazi says the club is considering a broader relationship with Major League Soccer after his recent visit to the United States.

The Rockets completed a reported R18-million deal with Chicago Fire for attacker Puso Dithejane in January, and Sukazi believes the move could lead to further cooperation between the two clubs and the wider MLS network.

Sukazi travelled to the United States partly to visit Dithejane and Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who both play for Chicago Fire. He also held discussions with other MLS clubs during a trip that included Cincinnati.

“There’s a lot to come from that end through TS Galaxy’s involvement. But then, of course, at the fundamental core was to visit our players, and when I say ‘our,’ I am speaking as a South African. Mbeke [Mbekezeli Mbokazi] is a son of the soil, and so is Puso [Dithejane]. Given that they play for one club, it just makes sense for me, or any other person for that matter, to see them both,” Sukazi told SABC Sport.

He added: “I think it’s quite natural. It was a pleasant and fruitful visit, but then, of course, because the mission was broader than that, our visit included Cincinnati as well, and I had meetings with other MLS clubs.”

Sukazi said his interest in forming stronger links with MLS was also driven by his belief that the competition is developing rapidly and could soon rank among the leading leagues worldwide.

“As TS Galaxy, we see the MLS becoming one of the top five leagues in the next five to eight years. Now I can say that emphatically because I watched three matches during my time there, and we thought it’s necessary that we also study that league. I can safely say the level of football now is higher than the level of our league. I am talking from a playing structure and tactical organizational setup.”

The Galaxy chairman believes Dithejane’s move has created opportunities for more of his former team-mates to follow him abroad. He has already identified several other players at TS Galaxy who could potentially make overseas moves.

Dithejane joined Chicago Fire from TS Galaxy in the reported R18-million January transfer, while Mbokazi is also part of the American club’s squad.

Sukazi also confirmed that TS Galaxy will stage most of their matches this season at the Solomon Mahlangu Stadium in KwaMhlanga.