Rulani Mokwena disagrees with Broos over Mbokazi transfer – ‘MLS is a very high level’

Rulani Mokwena is among those who do not agree with Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos over his sentiments that the MLS is a second-grade league.

Broos was not impressed by Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s transfer from Orlando Pirates to MLS side Chicago Fire last month, saying it is a step-down, when the defender should have waited for a European club after the Africa Cup of Nations or the upcoming World Cup.

Mbokazi has since been followed to Chicago by winger Puso Dithejane, who left TS Galaxy, for the big move to America and Mokwena feels the US league is one of the best in the world.

“It is ranked quite high and when you look at the quality of players that play there and some of the names that have played there. Some would argue that it is a retirement league but it is far from it,” Mokwena said on Sports Night Amplified.

What is Mokwena not sure about?

“When you see the level of the game and organisation of the league, I don’t think we can argue. It is a very good level.”

However, the MC Alger coach seems to have some reservations with players moving to the MLS when their careers are just starting such as 20-year-old Mbokazi and Dithejane, who is 21.

“We can speak about timing, should players go [to the MLS] in their earlier part of their careers or when they are in the peak or in the latter part of their careers? Like those who go to Saudi,” he added.

“It is a different part, but on the quality of the league, the MLS is a very high level,” said the former Mamelodi Sundowns and Wydad Athletic Club coach.