Bafana star tipped for Barcelona after World Cup heroics

Former Bafana Bafana coach Owen Da Gama has made a bold declaration, promising to step away from football entirely if rising star Mbekezeli Mbokazi fails to sign for a major European club by the end of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The 20-year-old defender has become a global talking point following his sensational performance against Canada on Sunday.

Da Gama, who once held the reins of the South African national team, firmly believes the time is right for the Hluhluwe-born talent to move to a more prestigious league.

Barcelona talk for Bafana defender

Mbekezeli Mbokazi in action for Bafana Bafana against Canada. Image: Imago

“Mbokazi’s performance was world-class. If that boy doesn’t go to a bigger team, then I must stop watching football, or even getting involved in it,” Da Gama told KickOff.

The veteran coach has high ambitions for the young star, suggesting top-tier destinations. “I would like to see him go to Barcelona. But I wouldn’t mind if he goes to Tottenham Hotspur. I think this boy is on another level. Ronwen [Williams] got it 100% right when he said Mbokazi is a generational talent.”

Mbekezeli Mbokazi shields the ball during South Africa's World Cup match against Canada. — Mbekezeli Mbokazi shields the ball during South Africa’s World Cup match against Canada. Photo: Imago

The former Orlando Pirates coach emphasised that Mbokazi represents a rare talent that emerges perhaps once a decade.

Mbokazi lauded for World Cup heroics

“He is still the same Mbokazi. The guy has strength that you can’t train. You can improve on it, but you can’t train it. He’s got speed that you can’t train him in. He’s got that tactical ability,” Da Gama explained.

“This boy is just a very, very special player. He was voted into the MLS top team in his first season in America. He was selected as one of the MLS best players.”

Mbakezeli Mbokazi and Aubrey Modiba of South Africa after World Cup defeat to Canada. Image: Imago

Da Gama highlighted the universal recognition of Mbokazi’s talent, adding, “If my grandmother can say he was the best player on the pitch yesterday, then what does that tell you? I mean, even in America, everybody is talking about him.

“The boy is just a natural. He doesn’t talk too much, but he still shows leadership qualities on the field. Those qualities are very special.”