Former Orlando Pirates defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi has been named as the fourth-best U22 player in the Major League Soccer.
The MLS have released their 22 Under 22 class of 2026, with the Chicago Fire star being named among the top young players.
Mbokazi has experienced a meteoric rise since joining Chicago, and he is now also the highest-valued player in the league, according to International Centre for Sports Studies (CIES).
On Tuesday, the Major League Soccer released their U22 class of 2026, with Mbokazi ranked the highest defender on the list and in fourth place overall.
“Chicago Fire FC defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi was named to the 2026 22 Under 22 class in his first year in Major League Soccer. Mbokazi was ranked No. 4, marking the fifth time a Fire player has been named within the Top 5 of the prestigious list,” read a media statement by his club.
“The 2026 22 Under 22 class highlights the next generation of MLS talent, with 16 clubs represented and an average player age of approximately 20 years old.
“The group boasts significant international experience, with 12 players earning senior national team call-ups for a combined 39 international appearances. Mbokazi leads the class with 15 senior caps, including four appearances at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
“In his first season with the Fire, Mbokazi, 21, has made 19 appearances (17 starts) for the Fire in 2026 across all competitions.
“Mbokazi missed several matches following FIFA World Cup 2026 with an injury, returning to the field with an 80-minute performance in the 1-0 victory against Charlotte FC on Saturday, Sept. 26. He followed that performance with four 90-minute matches.”