South African veteran coach Pitso Mosimane has revealed why Bafana Bafana defender Mbekezeli’ Mbokazi’s move to the MLS wasn’t wrong.
‘TLB’ joined Chicago Fire in December, leaving Orlando Pirates in the middle of the 2025/26 campaign.
He quickly settled into life in the United States and established himself as a key player for Chicago Fire.
The 20-year-old’s move to the USA sparked mixed reactions, with some questioning the transfer while others believed it was the right step for his career.
Mosimane said the MLS serves as a stepping stone to Europe, adding that Mbokazi is building his reputation and positioning himself for a future move to one of Europe’s top leagues.
He also pointed out that the Hluhluwe-born centre-back is playing alongside and against top-quality players, many of whom are currently featuring at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“Mbokazi went to Chicago Fire, and I know that maybe many people were saying it’s not a right move,” said Pitso on Smash Sports’ Changing The Game With Pitso Mosimane.
“But we have players who played in the Major League Soccer and are playing now in the English Premier League. So, it’s a good step.
“Even the likes of Shaun Bartlett played, and they ended up playing for Charlton Athletic. Major League Soccer is a good platform.
“Yes, it’s whereby you’re on transition there right to go to Europe but you’re playing with top talent. I mean how many players you saw in the World Cup that are playing in the MLS?
“So, it’s not a league for nobodies. It was a good move for him to go there to consolidate and start playing because sometimes you go to Europe and you’re on the bench.”
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