Broos questions Mbokazi’s MLS move: ‘Is this really the best?’

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Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has once again cast doubt over Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s high-profile move to Major League Soccer (MLS).

The South African coach questioned whether the $3 million (R50 million) transfer to Chicago Fire will genuinely advance the young defender’s career at a crucial time for both player and country.

Mbokazi, 20, will officially join the MLS club after the Africa Cup of Nations, having played his final match for Orlando Pirates in the Carling Knockout Cup final – a fitting farewell as the Buccaneers lifted yet another trophy with their rising star at the heart of the defence.

His rise has been rapid. Mbokazi only made his senior debut in March 2025, but quickly became a fan favourite at Pirates, admired for his composure, intensity and remarkable leadership for a player his age. This was recognised by coach Abdeslam Ouaddou who even entrusted him with captaincy duties.


But his sudden move abroad has divided opinion, particularly within the national setup. Broos, never one to mince his words, questioned both the timing and motivation behind the transfer.

“I think, no – it’s not a good move. What is he going to do in Chicago?” Broos said at a press conference as the national team gathered to finalise preparations for the AFCON tournament.

READ: Broos blasts ‘unprofessional’ Mbokazi as Bafana ramp up prep

According to Broos, his information suggests Mbokazi might initially be assigned to Chicago Fire II in MLS NEXT Pro, prompting his to exclaim: “That is even worse.”

Broos placed much of the blame on the player’s agent. “A woman who is his agent and thinks she knows football is doing what many agents do – thinking, ‘how much can I get?’ If she is a little clever, she knows there is AFCON, and next year the World Cup. There would be better teams for his career than Chicago.”

The Belgian mentor has long expressed concern about South African players moving to MLS, citing the demanding travel schedule and the risk of drifting out of the national team picture. Cassius Mailula and Bongokuhle Hlongwane are recent examples.

Photo: ©Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix

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