Mbekezeli Mbokazi: Salary, Age, Transfer Fee and Profile

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Mbekezeli Mbokazi: Salary, Age, Transfer Fee and Profile
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Chicago Fire FC made headlines by signing Mbekezeli Mbokazi, one of South Africa’s most promising defenders, from Orlando Pirates.

Following discussions between the management of both clubs, it has been agreed that Mbokazi will remain with Orlando Pirates until the final official fixture of 2025 before joining Chicago Fire FC in Major League Soccer.

Here’s everything you need to know about Mbokazi’s age, salary, transfer fee, leadership history, and career profile.

Who is Mbekezeli Mbokazi?

  • Full Name: Mbekezeli Mbokazi
  • Date of Birth: 19 September 2005
  • Age: 20 years old
  • Nationality: South African
  • Position: Centre-back (left-footed)
  • Height: 1.77 m (5’10”)

Mbokazi rose through the ranks at Makhasa FC and Langalibalele Academy before joining Orlando Pirates in 2023. He quickly became a key figure in the Pirates’ defense, earning the role of vice-captain and making 37 senior appearances, scoring 1 goal and providing 2 assists.

Youngest Captain in Orlando Pirates History

One of Mbokazi’s most remarkable achievements came in 2025, when he became the youngest player ever to captain Orlando Pirates. At just 19 years old, he wore the armband during a pre-season friendly in Spain against Pafos FC and later was officially appointed club captain for the 2025/26 season.

Former Pirates legends praised the decision, notably the Pirates treble- winning captain Lucky Lekgwathi and Benson Mhlongo.

This milestone highlights his maturity and leadership qualities, making him a standout figure in South African football.

Mbekezeli Mbokazi Orlando Pirates 1

Club Career Highlights

  • Played 35+ matches in South Africa’s Betway Premiership, CAF Champions League, and domestic cups including MTN 8, Carling Knockout, and Nedbank Cup.
  • Helped Orlando Pirates defend their MTN 8 title in 2025 with a 3-0 win over Stellenbosch FC.

International Career

  • Represented South Africa U-20 at the 2024 COSAFA U-20 Cup, which South Africa won, qualifying for the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations.
  • Made his Bafana Bafana debut in May 2025 in a 2-0 win against Mozambique.
  • Featured in FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Nigeria during the September 2025 international window.
Mbekezeli Mbokazi Bafana Bafana 1

Transfer Fee

Mbokazi’s move to Chicago Fire FC is one of the biggest transfers involving a South African defender in recent years.

  • Reported Transfer Fee: R51–52 million (approximately $3 million USD).
  • He joins under the MLS U-22 Initiative, occupying an international roster slot.
  • Contract runs through 2029, with a Club option for the 2029/30 season.
Mbokazi @ Chicago Fire

Salary

While MLS does not disclose exact salaries for U-22 Initiative players, estimates suggest:

  • Annual Salary Range: $300,000–$900,000 USD (R5.2–15.6 million).
  • Some reports indicate Mbokazi could earn around R1.3 million per month (≈ $80,000 USD), including bonuses.

Why This Signing Matters

  • Chicago Fire FC strengthens its defense with a young, internationally experienced player.
  • Mbokazi brings CAF Champions League pedigree, leadership qualities, and historic captaincy experience to MLS.
  • His signing reflects MLS’s growing interest in African talent.

<!-- Author Start -->Joel Oliver<!-- Author End -->

Joel Oliver

Author

Joel Oliver is a seasoned multimedia sports journalist with a rich background in covering diverse football stories and events in South Africa and beyond.
His extensive coverage spans subjects touching on the PSL, with a focus on the Big Three (Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs & Mamelodi Sundowns), Bafana Bafana and Banyana Banyana.

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